US launches 'secret' strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island as peace talks teeter along

The United States launched covert strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island, according to a Wall Street Journal report on Monday, citing US officials. The explosions on the island, situated in the Strait of Hormuz, were reported by the Iranian state media outlet IRNA. The US military's actions were part of a series of limited military operations conducted in recent weeks, keeping the attacks discreet to prevent signaling an intention to resume a broader military campaign against Iran.

The strikes occurred as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly urged US President Donald Trump to consider fresh military action against Iran, particularly following the upcoming US midterm elections. Trump and Netanyahu discussed Washington's negotiations with Tehran and the possibility of resuming military operations during a phone conversation on Saturday, with Netanyahu urging Trump to launch fresh strikes and the US president desiring to maintain diplomatic efforts for now.

Trump expressed uncertainty about his plans to resume military strikes against Iran after the midterm elections, while Vice President Kamala Harris expressed optimism that Washington and Tehran could still reach a deal to prevent Trump from ordering fresh strikes. The US and Iran have been at war since February 28, with both sides continuing to explore the possibility of a diplomatic settlement despite the ongoing tensions.