Some Iranian clerics and officials urge dropping pledge against nuclear weapons after war with US

■ Steady

US reportedly strikes Qeshm Island as Iran and US trade signals on talks

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, even as President Trump signalled progress in talks. On Tuesday, the New York Times reported that a growing number of Iranians want to drop the pledge not to build a nuclear bomb, and Israeli claims of Iranian chemical weapons reportedly split US officials. Iran says the ball is in the US court and that Washington must lift its naval blockade and meet its demands in full, while Vice President Vance reportedly sees progress in indirect talks.

• Iran says it has a two-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume nuclear talks, provided the US meets its conditions. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu says he wants to "finish the job".
• Iran's IRGC said on Monday that 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, its lowest since 16 October, on hopes of a breakthrough.
• NPR reports that Iran and Gulf states fear renewed US attacks after Tuesday's US midterms. Trump said at a Sunday rally he might give Tehran "the hammer".