The US carries out 'defensive' strikes on Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz despite Trump ruling out renewed attacks
From the Newshound archive · first published 2 November 2026 · last updated 3 November 2026.
A US official confirmed the strikes on Iranian positions in the Strait of Hormuz just hours after Trump told journalists "no" when asked directly whether he would resume attacks on Iran after Tuesday's midterm elections. The strikes were described as defensive in nature, deepening confusion over Washington's war posture on election day itself. Iran had earlier offered to reopen the Strait within two days if sanctions were lifted and frozen assets released.
Oil had already tumbled more than 10% to below $105 a barrel on hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough, with Brent crude hitting its lowest level since mid-October.
Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said peace consultations were "very intensive" but no final agreement had been reached, while Tehran flatly ruled out transferring its enriched uranium stockpile.
Iran is reportedly reconsidering its own longstanding ban on nuclear weapons, raising the stakes as talks continue with no breakthrough confirmed.