Trump confirms US strike on Iranian anti-aircraft site as Iran calls US Hormuz reply unconvincing

■ Steady

Iran says mines hit four vessels in Hormuz as US strikes continue amid indirect talks

On Wednesday, South Korea said it will send maritime patrol aircraft and a bomb-disposal team near the Strait of Hormuz to protect shipping, ruling out military intervention. On Tuesday, Iran's Revolutionary Guard said four vessels struck naval mines on a prohibited route in the strait, which is the IRGC's own account. Trump confirmed a US strike on an Iranian anti-aircraft site, and Iran called Washington's reply to its Hormuz plan unconvincing. Indirect talks are continuing after Democrats won both chambers of Congress in the US midterms.

• Trump said the US struck an Iranian anti-aircraft facility on Tuesday. A report said the US also struck Qeshm Island on Monday, part of a series of limited strikes carried out secretly in recent weeks.
• Supreme leader Khamenei said US policy toward Iran will not change, while Speaker Qalibaf said Americans have rejected the war and Washington should not attack Iran again.
• Iran says the US must lift its naval blockade and meet its demands before any deal. Vance reportedly sees progress in the talks.
• Brent crude fell more than 6.5% on Monday to as low as $105.55 on hopes of a breakthrough. UNCTAD says developing economies bear the heaviest fuel price burden since the Hormuz closure in February.