WASHINGTON - The United States carried out limited strikes on an Iranian island in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, according to multiple US media reports. The development comes as Qatar, a key mediator, expressed hope for an interim agreement to end the ongoing Middle East war.
Iran Ready for Battle
Iran's chief negotiator in talks with the US, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, declared that the Islamic republic is "ready for battle with its finger on the trigger," adding that "the ball is now in America's court to prevent war." His remarks underscore the heightened state of alert and the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts.
Iranian media reported explosions on Qeshm island but did not specify the source of the blasts. Later on Tuesday, Iranian media cited deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi as saying that Iran retained the right to "legitimate self-defence" following the strikes.
Strikes Hit Key Waterway
The strikes, reported by The Wall Street Journal, CNN, The New York Times, and other outlets, targeted the island located in the Hormuz waterway, a critical flashpoint in the Middle East war that has disrupted global markets. Unnamed US officials cited by the outlets described the attacks as defensive in nature. The Journal noted that this was just the latest of several undeclared strikes.
US Central Command did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment.
Timing Raises Questions
The reported strikes occurred as US voters prepared to cast their ballots in midterm elections that could threaten President Donald Trump's grip on power. The timing has raised questions about the potential political implications of the military action.
When asked if Israel was involved in the latest reported strikes, an Israeli military spokesperson told AFP, "No."
Background of the Conflict
The US and Israel launched their war with Iran with a massive wave of strikes in late February. The conflict has been stalemated for months, with no clear end in sight. Qatar, which has been mediating between the parties, said it remained hopeful of an interim deal.
The strikes on Qeshm island mark a significant escalation in the region, as the Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments. Any disruption there could have far-reaching consequences for the world economy.
As tensions continue to rise, the international community is watching closely to see whether diplomatic efforts can prevent a wider conflict.
