US conducts limited strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island amid diplomatic talks

The United States launched limited strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island late on Monday, according to reports in US media. The strikes, which were reported as being “defensive,” targeted surface to air missiles being used against US assets, according to Reuters and the Associated Press.

Iranian state media reported hearing several explosions on the island in the strait of Hormuz on Monday evening, though local outlets described the cause as unclear. The Wall Street Journal described the attacks as part of a series of strikes carried out against the country in recent weeks that have not been made public.

Diplomatic Negotiations

Tehran stated on Monday that the country is holding "intensive" indirect talks with Washington to avoid a fresh round of US attacks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said indirect talks are taking place via mediators, noting that "Qatar and Pakistan are playing a very active mediating role in these negotiations."

On his Truth Social platform, President Donald Trump wrote that a deal with Tehran "could happen," adding that "Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible."

Vice President JD Vance told reporters on Monday, “The president and I both feel pretty good about the prospects for potentially coming to a negotiated settlement,” and added, “We’ve certainly made some progress. We’ll see if we can make some more.”

Iranian Demands and Regional Context

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that if Iranian demands are met, it would be possible to restore security to the Strait of Hormuz and resume the negotiating process within a short period. Baghaei stated, "everything depends" on the US side accepting the Iranian demands.

According to Araghchi, Washington must accept a new route agreed between Iran and Oman for transiting the Strait, remove sanctions imposed in recent months, and reduce American troop numbers in the region.

Economic and Political Impact

Oil prices dropped more than six percent on Monday amid optimism regarding steps to halt the eight-month-old conflict. The strikes occurred on the eve of crucial US midterm elections, where rising petrol prices have become a significant issue for voters.

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Sources

• theguardian.com: US reportedly strikes Iran’s Qeshm Island as Vance voices optimism about a deal | US-Israel war on Iran | The Guardian
• france24.com: Trump says deal with Tehran 'could happen' amid 'intensive' talks - France 24

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.