US Military Strikes Iranian Air Defense on Qeshm Island as Tehran Reviews Mediator Proposals

The U.S. military conducted new limited strikes on Iran on Friday, targeting an Iranian air defense system on Qeshm Island, according to President Donald Trump, who described the action as "minor" and lasting about 15 minutes. The strikes mark the first U.S. military action since Republicans lost both chambers of Congress in Tuesday's midterm elections, a setback driven partly by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of the conflict and elevated fuel prices. Iran is currently reviewing proposals from mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences over its nuclear program, though Tehran insists on several concessions before engaging in nuclear talks, including lifting the U.S. blockade and sanctions. Diplomatic efforts have intensified following the U.S. election, with calls between Gulf leaders and officials. The U.S. has also offered a reward of up to $20 million for information about Iran's nuclear program, while Iran maintains its nuclear activities are peaceful.