Trump Says U.S. Forces Destroyed Iranian Air-Defense System

U.S. President Donald Trump said U.S. forces struck an Iranian air-defense system Friday, Nov. 6, claiming they destroyed the newly built installation within five to 15 minutes amid indirect nuclear talks and regional diplomacy.

Trump called the operation a small-scale strike and said Iran had recently completed the target. Two blasts were heard in the Suza area of Qeshm Island.

The Friday action was the first U.S. strike against Iran since Republicans lost control of both chambers of Congress in the midterm elections. Trump said the two sides remain divided over the nuclear program despite continuing talks through intermediaries.

Iran has sought an end to the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and sanctions, the release of frozen assets and compensation for war damage, as well as an end to regional hostilities. Qatar, Iraq and Egypt have stepped up diplomatic efforts in recent days to cool tensions.