U.S. Conducts Limited Strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island

U.S. military conducted limited strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island on Monday, according to two U.S. officials. The officials described the attacks as a defensive response to Iran’s ongoing targeting of maritime shipping and U.S. assets.

The U.S. continues to intercept drones and missiles aimed at shipping, with one official noting that the Islamic Revolutionary, Guard Corps has targeted U.S. aircraft in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding areas.

The U.S. has occasionally struck Iranian missile launchers in self-defense when the Revolutionary Guard attacks U.S. aircraft. A third official stated that the strike on Qeshm was part of ongoing operations to counter Iranian surface-to-air missile threats.

Iranian state media reported five explosions on Qeshm, while President Trump had previously stated the U.S. would not launch strikes on Iran before the midterm elections. The war has impacted U.S. gasoline prices and the economy, affecting Republican prospects in the upcoming elections.

Thousands of U.S. troops remain in the region to enforce a naval blockade, with additional forces and an aircraft carrier en route. Vice President JD Vance expressed cautious optimism about potential diplomatic progress with Iran.

Despite ongoing tensions, oil prices dropped as diplomatic efforts showed signs of progress. Trump acknowledged the price drop, downplaying the conflict’s scale and asserting that a deal remains close, though no agreement has yet been reached.