- Breaking
- World
- Middle East
- War
US attacks vital Iranian island hours before polls open for midterm elections
Updated . First published at
The US has attacked Iran’s Qeshm Island overnight, part of a series of secret strikes on the regime in recent weeks, the Wall Street Journal reports.
The attacks come hours before polls open in the US for the midterm elections, where the prolonged war with Iran looms as a major issue for voters.
The Strait of Hormuz’s influence over the global economy has become alarmingly clear. AP
It also comes hours after the president posted on Truth Social an indication that tensions would cool.
"Oil Prices are DROPPING LIKE A ROCK, down almost $10 a Barrel, A RECORD, because people feel that there will not be a War with Iran," Trump wrote.
"Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible. It could happen!"
A US official told CNN that today's attack was a "defensive measure for Iranians using surface to air missiles against US assets".
Iranian state media outlet IRNA said five blasts had been heard on the island.
"An IRNA correspondent on the island reported that the explosions came in rapid succession, and their severity indicated the strikes likely landed inside the island," the outlet said.
"Meanwhile, some residents said they spotted two aircraft in the skies above Qeshm."
Located at the chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz, Qeshm Island is a major strategic asset for Iran.
The island reportedly contains underground tunnels hiding anti-ship missiles, mines, drones and attack craft.
It remains one of the most strategically vital locations for Iran if it wants to continue cutting off the Strait of Hormuz to foreign shipping.
The island of Qeshm sits off the coast of Iran. iStock
Iran’s Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf was resolute in his latest message regarding the war with Iran.
"Iran’s conditions have been repeatedly and clearly stated to the mediators. The carrot-and-stick approach has no effect on Iran.
"Progress can only be achieved once Iran’s seven conditions have been agreed upon."
Those conditions include the lifting of sanctions and the US blockade, and an end to Israeli attacks in places like Lebanon.
The drawn-out conflict has drawn the ire of Democrats and Republicans alike.
“Families are fed up with the high cost of just about everything because of Republicans’ reckless policies and war of choice in Iran,” Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin said.
Trump had bragged the war with Iran would be over in days when it began in late February.
Since then he has repeatedly claimed the war was either won, or was about to end.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
