US strikes Iranian island again as Tehran weighs nuclear proposals

The US military launched fresh but limited strikes in Iran late Friday, targeting an air defense system on Qeshm island, according to President Donald Trump, who characterized the engagement as minor. Iranian media reported two explosions near the Suza area of Qeshm, a key island along the main international oil shipping corridor. The operation followed "defensive strikes" Monday on Qeshm, Hengam, and near Bandar Abbas, and was the first since Republicans lost control of Congress in Tuesday's midterm elections. Iran's leadership is reviewing Qatari proposals to resolve differences over Tehran's nuclear program, though officials say Iran remains unwilling to enter direct negotiations unless the US meets fundamental conditions. Tehran demands an end to the blockade, sanctions relief, and compensation, while a potential bridge agreement could involve IAEA inspections and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.