U.S. Launches Limited Strikes on Iranian Targets in Strait of Hormuz

The United States launched strikes on Iranian military targets in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, according to a U.S. official. The operation appeared limited in scope and occurred on the eve of Tuesday's midterm elections. Iranian state media reported hearing explosions on the islands of Qeshm and Hengam, as well as in the mainland area of Bandar Abbas. Unlike previous engagements in the conflict, these strikes were not announced publicly before they began.

The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly, stated that the attacks targeted Iranian forces using surface-to-air missiles. The strikes took place while Iran announced a two-day plan to reopen the strait. This waterway carries approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply during peacetime. The timing creates tension because President Donald Trump had previously stated the U.S. would not launch strikes before the midterms.

Economic pressures have made the war a vulnerability for the Republican Party as it seeks to maintain control of Congress. The conflict has affected gasoline prices and other sectors of the U.S. economy. Vice President JD Vance told reporters on Monday that he and the president feel optimistic about the prospects for a negotiated settlement. This statement came before the U.S. official confirmed the new strikes.

Diplomatic efforts continue alongside the military action. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Trump for another wave of strikes after the U.S. elections, according to two regional officials and a third person familiar with the matter. A return to full-scale war could assist Netanyahu in forming an emergency government after his coalition lost its parliamentary majority in last week's elections. Mediators are working on a framework for Iran to cease attacks in the strait in exchange for the U.S. lifting its blockade on Iranian ports.

The Trump administration last carried out known attacks in early September. Thousands of U.S. troops remain in the waters off Iran to maintain a naval blockade on tankers. A third aircraft carrier and additional troops are en route to the Middle East. Iranian state television quoted parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf on Tuesday. He said Iran delivered a firm and rational response to the U.S. and warned that Iranian armed forces remain at the highest level of defensive readiness.