US strikes hit Iranian targets on Qeshm Island ahead of midterm elections

The United States conducted strikes against Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, a U.S. official said, describing them as defensive attacks on Iranians using surface-to-air missiles against a U.S. asset. Iranian media reported five explosions on Qeshm Island. The strikes came hours after President Donald Trump signaled progress in negotiations with Tehran, writing on Truth Social that Iran wants a deal "as soon as possible." Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about reaching a negotiated agreement, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed indirect talks via Qatari and Pakistani mediators. The operation occurs on the eve of U.S. midterm elections, where Republicans seek to keep Congress. The war has become a political liability, contributing to Trump's falling approval ratings due to economic consequences, including disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of global oil.