U.S. strikes Iran's Qeshm Island amid diplomatic overtures

U.S. military carried out attacks on Iran's Qeshm Island on Monday, a Wall Street Journal report said, even as Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about reaching a 'negotiated settlement' with Tehran. The strikes, described as limited and kept quiet to avoid signaling major escalation, targeted the island hosting anti-ship missiles and drones near the Strait of Hormuz.

Why it matters. The action raises the risk of military escalation with Iran while diplomatic efforts continue, potentially affecting global oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and broader Middle East stability.