U.S. conducts limited strike on Iranian air defense system amid diplomatic talks

President Trump announced that U.S. military aircraft carried out a limited strike on an Iranian air-defense system in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, part of the Strait of Hormuz. He described the operation as "minor" and said the target was disabled within minutes.

Iranian state media reported two explosions in the area, and U.S. Central Command later confirmed it had disabled a St. Kitts-flagged vessel that attempted to leave the region after visiting an Iranian port. The United States has maintained a naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz for several months.

The strike follows the recent midterm elections, in which the Republican Party lost control of both chambers of Congress. The electoral outcome has been linked by analysts to public dissatisfaction with the ongoing conflict with Iran and rising fuel prices.

Separately, officials from Qatar said Iran is reviewing proposals aimed at narrowing differences with the United States over Tehran's nuclear program. Iran has indicated it will not resume negotiations until the United States lifts the blockade, removes sanctions, unfreezes assets and ends regional hostilities.

U.S. Central Command posted on X that it is offering a reward of up to $20 million for information on Iran's nuclear facilities and related personnel, linking to the State Department’s Rewards for Justice program.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke with Qatar’s defense minister about the situation, and President Trump held a separate call with Qatar’s emir to discuss de-escalation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held talks with counterparts from Iraq, Tunisia and Egypt, emphasizing the need for flexibility in negotiations.

The United States and Iran have not confirmed any further strikes, and officials declined to comment on the reported explosions on Qeshm, Hengam and the mainland near Bandar Abbas.