The United States has launched targeted strikes on Iran`s strategically vital Qeshm Island near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal citing US officials.

Following the publication of the report, Iranian state media confirmed that multiple heavy explosions rocked Qeshm Island and the nearby southern port city of Bandar Lengeh early Tuesday morning (November 3).

Local media outlets, including IRNA, reported a rapid succession of blasts in coastal waters, with local residents sighting aircraft overhead during the strikes. Details regarding immediate casualties or physical damage remain unconfirmed as Iranian provincial authorities investigate the scene.

The military action comes despite recent public statements by US President Donald Trump downplaying the likelihood of a broader military escalation with Tehran ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections.

Addressing reporters on Monday (November 2) President Trump stated, "We had a war with Iran. We won," adding, "I don`t know if you even call it a war because we haven`t been doing any fighting for months."

However, US defense officials briefed The Wall Street Journal that American forces have maintained a series of targeted, small-scale defensive strikes against Iranian military assets for several weeks.

Officials explained that these persistent operations aim to degrade Iran`s capability to target commercial maritime traffic or disrupt international shipping channels in the crucial Strait of Hormuz.