US and Iran Exchange Attacks Amidst Escalating Tensions; Trump Administration Seeks De-escalation Ahead of Midterms

The United States and Iran have exchanged military strikes, with the U.S. military stating its actions were in response to Iranian attempts to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has reportedly retaliated, with some reports of civilian casualties. Top aides to President Trump are reportedly pushing to de-escalate the conflict before the November midterm elections to mitigate potential Republican electoral losses, though the administration has also threatened further escalation if Iran retaliates again. The conflict has been ongoing for six months, impacting oil prices and the global economy.