Iran says war benefits no one after reported US strikes on Qeshm island

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tuesday that a return to war would benefit "no one," hours after reported US strikes on Qeshm island in the Strait of Hormuz, as US voters prepared for midterm elections. Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the republic was "ready for battle with its finger on the trigger," while deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi cited a right to "legitimate self-defence." Pezeshkian said his government sought to resolve the crisis "through dialogue," noting the supreme leader granted new negotiating powers. The strikes, reported by US outlets, were described as defensive by unnamed officials, with US Central Command not responding to requests for comment. Trump signaled a deal "could happen," while Qatar said both parties remained committed to negotiations, and Tehran offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days under conditions.