US strikes Iranian air defence system as Trump calls action minor
The military operation targeted a device on Qeshm Island while Qatar continues mediation efforts to end the eight-month conflict.
US President Donald Trump said the American military carried out strikes on an Iranian air defence system on Friday. According to the Times of India, Iranian state media reported two explosions in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, situated in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump described the military action as "minor" while speaking to reporters in West Palm Beach, Florida. He stated that the military knocked out an anti-aircraft device in approximately five to 15 minutes, though he did not provide specific details regarding the target.
The strikes occurred as Iran considers proposals conveyed through mediators to end the eight-month-old conflict. Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani told Al Jazeera TV on Saturday that mediation efforts are continuing to prevent the regional situation from spiralling out of control.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that a settlement could be reached, noting that the US administration remains willing to find a solution. Iran has reportedly sent a fresh proposal regarding its nuclear programme to the US through Qatar.
Tehran has indicated that negotiations depend on Washington addressing demands, such as lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, and paying reparations. The US is currently reviewing the proposal.
The latest military action follows US strikes on Monday, which Washington described as defensive. These previous strikes involved explosions on Qeshm and Hengam islands, as well as in the mainland area of Bandar Abbas.
