The United States has reportedly carried out strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. US officials cited in the reports said that the strikes were limited in nature and did not signal a resumption of major combat operations, and that they were defensive measures targeting Iranian surface-to-air missile threats against US assets. Earlier, Iranian state media had reported hearing five explosions on the island, with residents also reporting aircrafts flying overhead. Amid the developments, Iran has said that indirect talks with the US are intensifying through mediators.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Iranian State Media that consultations were taking place through mediators, while US Vice President JD Vance said Washington had made progress in the negotiations. President Donald Trump also indicated that a settlement could be possible, saying Iran wanted an agreement as soon as possible. The diplomatic efforts come amid attempts to prevent a renewed conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz under agreed conditions.
Meanwhile, an Indian vessel, MSV Al Jusufi, carrying 14 Indian seafarers, was struck by an unidentified aerial object off the coast of Oman yesterday,resulting in the death of one crew member. 13 others were safely evacuated and rescued by the Omani Coast Guard, informed Union Minister of Shipping Sarbananda Sonowal. The Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Oman are in touch with local authorities to provide assistance to the survivors and facilitate the early repatriation of the crew and the mortal remains of the deceased.
Fears of a further escalation in the region are growing following reports of a US strike on Iran’s Qeshm Island and an attack on an Indian vessel off the coast of Oman, which claimed the life of one Indian seafarer. Earlier reports had suggested that US could consider military action against Iran after the US midterm elections. However, both Washington and Tehran have recently signalled progress in diplomatic efforts to avoid a renewed conflict. With talks reportedly intensifying through mediators, the latest attacks have added fresh uncertainty over the prospects for de-escalation in the region.
