US Strikes Iranian Island as Trump Signals Diplomatic Path

The United States struck Iran's strategic Qeshm Island on November 2, with officials confirming the attack just hours before the US midterm elections, despite President Donald Trump downplaying the prospect of renewed large-scale war. The strikes targeted the island at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz, home to an underground missile facility and naval base, as part of a series of secret limited operations aimed at degrading Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping. Trump ruled out an immediate attack on Monday while signaling possible diplomatic progress. Iranian state media reported explosions on the island, though Tehran has shown restraint in responding to similar incidents. Both sides continue signaling openness to negotiations, with Iranian officials saying "the ball is in the US court" regarding a potential deal.