President Donald Trump confirmed on Saturday that US forces carried out strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island on Friday, targeting Iranian air defense systems.
The attacks hit the Suza area of the island in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media reported two missile strikes there. Trump described the operation as "minor." He said US forces destroyed an anti-aircraft device in "about 15 minutes, maybe five." Iranian state broadcaster IRIB separately reported that the army shot down an American MQ-9 drone over the island.
The strikes follow limited US attacks earlier this week against Qeshm and Hengam islands and the mainland area of Bandar Abbas. US Central Command, which oversees military operations in the Middle East, called the situation "relatively calm" while acknowledging reports of explosions.
Trump made the confirmation after his Republican Party suffered major losses in Tuesday's midterm elections. He blamed the war with Iran for the results. "If I had it to do again, I'd have to do it again," he told reporters. "Because long term, it's the only answer."
The president also said his administration was negotiating with Tehran. "We've made a lot of progress with Iran," he said. Qatar, which is mediating between the two sides, dismissed reports that talks had failed. Vice President JD Vance has been leading behind-the-scenes efforts to reach a new ceasefire. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly pushed for renewed large-scale strikes.
Alongside the military action, the US State Department issued a security alert for Americans in 10 Middle Eastern countries. The alert warned of possible attacks and travel disruptions. US Central Command also announced a reward of up to $20 million for information about Iran's nuclear program.
