US strikes Iran air defenses as Qatari mediators push for nuclear deal

The United States military launched new limited strikes against Iranian air defense systems on Friday. The attacks occurred in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, a location within the Strait of Hormuz that handles a large volume of global oil shipments.

President Donald Trump characterized the engagement as minor during an exchange with reporters in West Palm Beach, Florida. He stated that U.S. forces neutralized an anti-aircraft device in a timeframe of five to fifteen minutes. Trump did not provide additional specifics on the target or the extent of the damage.

U.S. officials previously assessed that most of Iran's air defense infrastructure was destroyed or severely degraded during Israeli bombardments in June 2025 and the early phases of the current conflict. The Pentagon expects Tehran to work on rebuilding these systems over time. The military also reported defensive strikes on Monday that caused explosions on Qeshm and Hengam islands and near Bandar Abbas.

The Friday strikes represent the first U.S. military action since Republicans lost control of both chambers of Congress in Tuesday's midterm elections. Voter dissatisfaction with the war's management and rising fuel prices contributed to the electoral defeat. Since the vote, Trump has alternated between threats to destroy Iran and suggestions that a resolution is approaching.

Qatar has presented new proposals to Iranian officials aimed at resolving differences regarding Tehran's nuclear program. Two Middle East government officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Iran is currently reviewing these offers. The mediators discussed a bridge deal involving trust-building measures over two days. This plan includes lifting the U.S. blockade and releasing frozen Iranian funds in exchange for allowing International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors access to bombed sites.

Iran maintains that it requires several concessions before engaging in nuclear talks. These demands include ending the U.S. port blockade, lifting sanctions, unfreezing assets, providing compensation for war damage, and halting hostilities across the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. The White House declined to comment on the specific Qatari proposals, though Trump confirmed that mediators continue discussions with Tehran.

U.S. Central Command announced late Friday that it is offering a reward of up to $20 million and possible relocation for information regarding Iran's nuclear program, including facilities and personnel. The agency linked the offer to the State Department's Rewards for Justice program. Iran currently holds 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, which is technically close to the 90 percent level required for weapons.