Donald Trump says letter to Iran's security chief aimed at "medical supplies and various things"

U.S. forces launched limited attacks on Iranian positions in the Strait of Hormuz on the night before the nation’s midterm elections, saying the strikes were a defensive reaction to Iranian fire aimed at an American aircraft; the operations followed earlier September actions and left thousands of troops and a carrier group stationed near Iran to enforce a naval blockade on Iranian oil shipments. Vice‑president JD Vance recently sent a letter to Iran’s security chief, and President Donald Trump said the correspondence was intended to help Iran obtain medical equipment and other assistance, while also indicating he would not order additional strikes after the vote. The developments come as both sides weigh the possibility of a negotiated settlement amid concerns that renewed hostilities could affect oil markets and the upcoming congressional balance of power.