US launches defensive strikes on Iran as Vance voices optimism on possible deal
Limited strikes reported on Qeshm Island on eve of midterm elections; backchannel talks continue
The United States carried out limited defensive strikes against Iranian targets on Qeshm Island on Monday, targeting Iranians using surface-to-air missiles against US assets, a US official said. The action, the first in two months, came on the eve of the US midterm elections and as Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about a possible negotiated settlement with Iran.