Israeli claims of Iranian chemical weapons split US officials

■ Steady

US reportedly strikes Qeshm Island as indirect talks continue before US midterms

The US reportedly struck Iran's Qeshm Island on Monday, described as the latest in a series of limited strikes carried out secretly in recent weeks, while President Trump signalled progress in talks. On Tuesday, reports said Israeli claims about Iranian chemical weapons have split US officials, some of whom suggest Prime Minister Netanyahu is trying to pull Trump back into military action. Iran says the US must lift its naval blockade and meet its demands in full, while Vice President Vance reportedly sees progress in the indirect talks.

• Iran says it is in intensive indirect talks to prevent new US attacks and has a two-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if its demands are met. Netanyahu says he wants to "finish the job" first.
• Iran's IRGC says two tankers hit mines and caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Brent crude fell more than 6.5% on Monday to as low as $105.55 a barrel on hopes of a breakthrough.
• NPR reports that Gulf states and Iran both fear renewed US attacks after Tuesday's midterms. Iran warns a new war could outlast the last one.