US launches strikes on Iran, tehran warns against renewed conflict

Trump downplayed the possibility of resuming bombing campaigns, stating he was prepared but hopeful a conflict could be avoided. “We seem to be getting everything we want,” he told the Financial Times.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s chief negotiator in talks with the United States, asserted the nation’s readiness for confrontation, while Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized Iran’s right to self-defense. President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that his government is pursuing a resolution through dialog, reinforcing that “no one will benefit from this war” if it restarts. He also highlighted that the country’s supreme leader recently granted the government expanded authority to negotiate previously restricted issues.

Trump confirmed the strikes in an interview with Fox News, following reports of attacks on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. He described the action as a “minor attack” targeting a newly completed anti-aircraft facility.

The conflict, initiated in February with a wave of strikes by the United States and Israel, has been in a stalemate for months. An Israeli military spokesperson confirmed Israel’s non-involvement in the recent strikes.

Just prior to the US midterm elections, Trump indicated a potential agreement with Iran, posting on Truth Social that “Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible.” Ghalibaf responded by stating Iran’s position is clear and that “the ball is now in America’s court to prevent war.”

Qatar, acting as a mediator in indirect negotiations between the US and Iran, expressed optimism regarding a possible interim deal. Foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari said both sides are reviewing proposals, adding that Qatar is working towards an interim agreement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed ongoing indirect negotiations on Monday.

US Vice President JD Vance shared optimism about securing an agreement, noting progress had been made.

A senior Iranian official suggested Iran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days, contingent on the US meeting long-standing demands, including ending the war, unfreezing assets, lifting oil sanctions, and ending a counter-blockade of Iranian ports. Iran previously proposed a seven-day plan in September to achieve this. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei described this as a sign of Iran’s commitment.

In the days leading up to the vote, Trump reiterated threats against Iran, suggesting the US might need to “give Iran the hammer” at an unspecified time. He also mentioned needing to address remaining targets, including ‘Pickaxe Mountain’ in central Iran, which Iran denies is a nuclear site.

Iranian officials have consistently warned of retaliation if the US resumes hostilities.

Separately, Iran reported that four oil tankers caught fire after striking mines while attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps stated that two additional ships have also been halted. The Guards also claimed to have shot down a drone over the strait.