US strikes Iranian targets in Strait of Hormuz ahead of elections

The United States struck Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, a US official told reporters on the eve of the country's midterm elections. The operation targeted Iranian systems that had used surface-to-air missiles against American assets, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.

Iranian state television reported that explosions were heard on Qeshm Island, a landmass located within the strategic waterway. The Wall Street Journal cited US officials to confirm that the island was the site of the recent strikes. State media outlet IRNA also reported multiple explosions on the island.

The attack represents the most recent action in a series of limited strikes conducted by Washington over the past several weeks. According to the Wall Street Journal, these operations have been smaller in scale and deliberately kept secret. The goal has been to avoid signaling a broader intent to resume major military campaigns against Iran.

US Central Command did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the specific details of the strike. The timing of the operation coincides with heightened tensions in the region and the upcoming US political calendar.

In related developments, Israel has requested that the Lebanese government deploy troops to establish roadblocks in areas populated by Hezbollah operatives. A security source told the Kan public broadcaster that the request was relayed by US mediators. Jerusalem warned Beirut that fighting in Lebanon would flare up again if Hezbollah attacks Israel as a war with Iran resumes.

Saudi Arabia also engaged in diplomatic efforts to manage regional tensions. Prince Khalid bin Salman, the Saudi Defense Minister, said he discussed strategic defense cooperation with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a phone call. The two officials also addressed ongoing Houthi attacks on the kingdom and broader international developments.

Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, announced that Ukrainian, Russian, and US officials will hold a trilateral meeting in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11. Witkoff stated on X that the US would mediate working-level negotiations to advance the mission to end the war. The discussions will focus on post-war security, de-escalation, and humanitarian efforts. US negotiators will also meet with European and NATO officials in Brussels this week.

In Iran, the semi-official Fars news agency reported that the country executed two men convicted of killing four police officers. Amirhossein Maleki and Amirhossein Ebrahimi were sentenced to death for their roles in the January 8, 2026, killings in Isfahan. Their sentences were upheld by the Supreme Court. The regime is believed to have killed thousands of protesters during the unrest that year, with some reports suggesting the toll reached tens of thousands.