Three possible paths for the Iran conflict after US strikes

President Donald Trump launched strikes on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz on the eve of US midterm elections, resuming a stalled conflict with Iran, though he stated he is in "no rush" to restart fighting. US officials described the strikes as limited defensive measures against Iranian surface-to-air missiles, while Iran's IRNA reported explosions across the island. Three potential paths exist: a negotiated peace deal with intensive talks ongoing, a major bombing campaign targeting military and nuclear infrastructure, or a nuclear strike. Iranian officials signaled readiness for diplomacy if Washington shows sincerity, while mediators report positive progress. Senator Chris Murphy called the bombing plan "insane," and Tucker Carlson claimed without evidence that Trump may consider nuclear strikes on Iran's Natanz site under Israeli pressure.