US hits Qeshm Island as Trump suggests deal with Iran is near

The United States launched an attack on Iran’s Qeshm Island on Monday, according to reports that emerged while President Donald Trump was indicating that negotiations with Tehran were moving forward. The conflict, which has persisted for eight months, appears to be reaching a critical juncture as diplomatic efforts intensify alongside continued military pressure.

The Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed US officials, identified the strike on Qeshm as the most recent in a series of limited operations that Washington has secretly conducted over the past several weeks. The island is the largest in the Strait of Hormuz, a geographic location of significant strategic importance for global energy transport.

Iranian state news agency IRNA confirmed the incident, reporting that five explosions were heard in rapid succession on the island. Some residents also stated that they observed two aircraft flying over the area during the event.

When asked about the reported strikes, the Pentagon directed inquiries to US Central Command. As of late Monday, the command had not immediately responded to requests for comment from the Associated Press.

The Journal noted that US forces have been engaged in smaller-scale strikes against Iran for several weeks. Officials described these assaults as defensive measures intended to prevent Iran from having the freedom to attack commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

This waterway serves as a key conduit for oil shipments. It has been largely blocked since the war began in late February, a disruption that has had profound effects on global markets and supply chains.

The US has chosen not to publicly announce these attacks. According to the report, this decision was made to avoid signaling any intention of resuming major combat operations, thereby maintaining a degree of strategic ambiguity.

On Monday, which marked the eve of midterm elections in the United States, President Trump stated that a deal with Tehran could happen. His remarks came amid what he described as intensive talks aimed at resolving the ongoing dispute.

The potential for a diplomatic breakthrough had a measurable impact on financial markets. Oil prices, which had risen sharply due to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz energy corridor, plunged by more than seven percent on Monday. This drop reflected growing optimism among investors regarding a possible end to the conflict.

The combination of covert military strikes and diplomatic signaling underscores the complex strategy being employed by Washington. As the US navigates the pre-election period, the balance between showing military resolve and pursuing a negotiated settlement remains a central focus of its foreign policy.