Trump Orders Strikes on Iran as IRGC Moves Production Underground

President Donald Trump ordered limited military strikes against Iranian air defense systems and infrastructure on Qeshm Island on November 2 and November 7. Trump characterized the operations as minor, claiming U.S. forces disabled an anti-aircraft device in five to 15 minutes. In response, Iranian forces reported shooting down two U.S. MQ-9 drones, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) announced it has relocated missile and drone production to underground facilities to ensure continuity during bombardment.

Tensions escalated further as Iran began distributing iodine tablets to residents near nuclear facilities to protect against potential radioactive leaks. This move follows reports that Trump is considering resuming major military operations to permanently dismantle the Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site. Simultaneously, U.S. Central Command established Task Force Iron Gate to block Iranian trade routes via the Caspian Sea and offered a $20 million reward for intelligence on Iran's nuclear program.

Maritime conflict intensified in the Strait of Hormuz, where two oil tankers caught fire after hitting naval mines. While Trump suggested that Tehran wants to make a deal, the IRGC warned that all assets of hostile countries are within reach. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi warning the U.S. against using Iraqi territory for attacks, and the Emir of Qatar engaging Trump to ease regional tensions.