By — Michelle Price, Associated Press Michelle Price, Associated Press By — Samy Magdy, Associated Press Samy Magdy, Associated Press By — Elena Becatoros, Associated Press Elena Becatoros, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/u-s-launches-new-attacks-on-iranian-targets-days-after-netanyahu-pressed-trump-for-more-strikes Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter U.S. launches new attacks on Iranian targets days after Netanyahu pressed Trump for more strikes World Nov 3, 2026 10:07 AM EST The United States launched strikes on Iranian targets, a U.S. official said, in what appeared to be a limited operation on the eve of Tuesday's crucial midterm elections. Iranian state media reported explosions being heard on the islands of Qeshm and Hengam in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and in the nearby mainland area of Bandar Abbas. Unlike earlier in the war, the strikes were not publicly announced. President Donald Trump previously said the U.S. wouldn't launch strikes on Iran before the midterms. The unpopular war and the resulting impact on U.S. gasoline prices and other parts of the economy have been a vulnerability for his Republican Party as…
U.S. launches new attacks on Iranian targets days after Netanyahu pressed Trump for more strikes
In short
Iranian state media confirmed explosions occurred near mainland Bandar Abbas alongside the islands of Qeshm and Hengam during the unannounced operation. The strikes took place shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged President Donald Trump to escalate military action against Tehran. Meanwhile, back-channel mediators continue pursuing a de-escalation framework to exchange an end to maritime attacks for the lifting of U.S. port blockades. Vice President JD Vance had previously indicated optimism regarding a negotiated settlement before these latest actions unfolded.
Key points
- The military strikes directly followed a weekend telephone call where Benjamin Netanyahu…: The military strikes directly followed a weekend telephone call where Benjamin Netanyahu urged Donald Trump to hit Iran.
- Economic consequences from the eight-month conflict, especially gasoline prices, pose sig…: Economic consequences from the eight-month conflict, especially gasoline prices, pose significant political risks for Republicans during the midterms.
- Diplomatic mediators are actively seeking a compromise involving the reopening of waterwa…: Diplomatic mediators are actively seeking a compromise involving the reopening of waterways and restarted nuclear discussions.