World
U.S. Conducts Limited Strike on Iranian Air‑Defence System Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
By AP
President Donald Trump announced on Friday, November 6, 2026, that the U.S. military carried out a new limited strike on an Iranian air‑defence system. State media in Iran reported two explosions in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, a key point in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump described the action as "minor," saying the U.S. "knocked out a little bit of an anti‑aircraft device in about 15 minutes, maybe five," after arriving in West Palm Beach, Florida. He did not provide further details about the target.
U.S. officials have said that most of Iran’s air‑defence systems were destroyed or severely degraded during a June 2025 bombardment by Israel and in the early stages of the current conflict. They expect Iran to rebuild its military infrastructure over time. The U.S. military also reported defensive strikes on Monday, November 2, with explosions heard on Qeshm and Hengam islands and near Bandar Abbas.
The strikes on Friday were the first since the Republican Party suffered a significant defeat in the U.S. midterm elections on Tuesday, November 3. The electoral setback was partly attributed to voter dissatisfaction with Trump’s handling of the conflict and rising fuel prices, a consequence of the war that has impacted the global economy.
In the same week, Qatar presented proposals to Iran aimed at resolving differences over Tehran’s nuclear programme. An Iranian official said Iran is reviewing the proposals but remains unwilling to negotiate with the Trump administration until the U.S. meets several core conditions demanded by Iran for any ceasefire agreement. The conditions include ending the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing Iranian assets, compensating for war damage, and ending hostilities in the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon.
The U.S. Central Command posted on X on Friday, offering a reward of up to $20 million and possible relocation for information about Iran’s nuclear programme, including facilities, equipment, and personnel. The post linked to the State Department’s Rewards for Justice programme.
White House officials declined to comment on the Qatar‑presented proposals. Trump said that talks with Iran continue, stating, "We are talking to Iran. We have been."
Iran’s nuclear programme remains a contentious issue. The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that Iran holds 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a technical step from weapons‑grade levels of 90%. Iran maintains that its programme is peaceful.
Diplomatic activity has increased in recent days. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke with Qatar’s defence minister, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held calls with Iraqi, Tunisian, Egyptian, and Emirati counterparts to discuss tensions and the possibility of resuming negotiations. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized the need for flexibility from both sides to achieve compromise solutions and prevent further escalation.
Published – November 07, 2026 09:50 am IST