U.S. President Donald Trump announced that American forces have conducted a strike on an Iranian air defense facility, characterizing the operation as “minor” and asserting that the United States is not at war with Iran. This strike marks the first U.S. military action against Iran since the recent midterm elections in which Democrats gained control of both houses of Congress.
Trump reported that the Iranian site was destroyed quickly, asserting, “They built a little bit of an anti-aircraft device and we knocked it out in about 15 minutes, maybe five.” Iranian state media confirmed two explosions occurring in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, strategically located near significant oil shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows another round of U.S. strikes earlier in the week, which Washington framed as defensive measures.
As explosions were noted around the islands of Qeshm and Hengam and near Bandar Abbas, a key naval center, Trump insisted that there has been an absence of American casualties, which he argued disqualifies the situation from being termed a war. He also mentioned that communication between Washington and Tehran continues, stating, “We have total control, but we’re dealing with the Iranians. We’ll see how that all works out.” The president acknowledged that these military actions may have contributed to Republican setbacks in the recent elections.
Before the strike on Friday, the U.S. government offered up to $20 million for information regarding Iran’s nuclear program, including details about relevant scientists and technologies. This initiative stems from the State Department’s Rewards for Justice program, which aims to gather intelligence on nuclear-related activities.
Meanwhile, two officials from Middle Eastern governments reported that Iran is considering new proposals from Qatar aimed at de-escalating tensions. However, Iran has expressed reluctance to negotiate over its nuclear program without concessions from Washington, including an end to the blockade of Iranian ports, the lifting of sanctions, and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.
While Iranian officials have warned citizens about potential U.S. strikes on suspected nuclear sites, including the underground facility known as Pickaxe Mountain, they have advised residents to prepare for a possible nuclear emergency. Local authorities have distributed iodine tablets to individuals living near these facilities.
Trump, speaking to the media, indicated that the Pickaxe Mountain site could be targeted in the future. He stated that the U.S. has already diminished Iran’s nuclear capabilities but did not rule out further military action if necessary.
