Reported by:
Cherry Meigh Timbol
News Content Editor
Published November 4, 2026
The U.S. military carried out limited strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island on Monday, three U.S. officials told CNN, describing the action as defensive and meant to protect U.S. assets in the region.
The officials said the strikes were not a resumption of major combat operations in Iran.
What U.S. officials said
A senior U.S. official told CBS News that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards fired at an American fighter jet, which returned fire. Later Monday, Iran fired a missile from Qeshm Island that threatened shipping.
ABC News reported that Iran has increased attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks. Central Command did not respond to ABC’s requests for comment.
The Wall Street Journal first reported the strikes. It said the U.S. has been carrying out smaller-scale strikes on Iran for several weeks without announcing them, unlike earlier operations that Central Command publicized. (investing)
Iran’s response
Iranian state-affiliated Fars News Agency reported several explosions on the island early Tuesday local time. The Revolutionary Guard Corps also claimed it shot down two U.S. reconnaissance drones over Qeshm, though it is unclear whether that is related to the strikes.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran retains the right to legitimate self-defense until what he called military aggression is permanently ended.
Strategic context and diplomacy
Qeshm Island, in the northern Strait of Hormuz, is central to Iran’s efforts to monitor and exert control over commercial traffic through the waterway. It houses a large underground missile site and a desalination plant.
The strikes came on the eve of U.S. Election Day. President Trump has floated restarting hostilities with Iran after the midterms, while U.S. and Qatari mediators broker talks on a possible deal. Earlier Monday, Vice President JD Vance expressed measured optimism that a deal can still be reached. The strikes also followed Trump’s call for no attacks on Iran until after the November 3 midterms. Oil prices rose in early Asian trading Tuesday after news of the strikes.
