The United States has carried out limited strikes against Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a US official quoted by international media. The reported action came on Monday, November 2, a day before the US midterm elections, raising fresh concerns about tensions between Washington and Tehran.
An unnamed US official told the Associated Press that American forces targeted Iranian personnel accused of using surface-to-air missiles against US assets. The official described the operation as defensive. The Wall Street Journal, citing US officials, identified Iran’s Qeshm Island as the target.
Iranian state television and the state news agency IRNA reported several explosions on Qeshm Island. However, the full extent of the damage and the exact targets have not been independently confirmed. Reports available so far have not provided confirmed casualty figures.
The strikes appear to have been limited and do not necessarily indicate a return to large-scale military operations. According to reports, they are part of a series of limited US actions in the region in recent weeks. The US Central Command had not issued a public statement at the time of the initial reports.
Oil prices rise after reports of strikes
Oil markets reacted to the news. Brent crude rose 0.5% to around $105.25 per barrel by 0104 GMT on Tuesday, November 3. This followed a sharp fall of 7.63% on Monday, when Brent settled at $104.77 per barrel.
The latest development has added uncertainty to the region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil shipments. The future of diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran, along with shipping activity in the strait, will remain important to watch.
