US intelligence: Iran escalating to prolong conflict, undermine Trump before midterms

US President Donald Trump has downgraded the Iran war from a full-blown conflict to "small potatoes," stating it is not a significant issue for the United States. Six months after the war began, 18 American service members have died, with hundreds more wounded, causing global economic strain and costing billions of dollars. Trump referred to the war as "intermittent" and compared the US death toll to higher casualties in Vietnam and Afghanistan.

He argued that the conflict prevented Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, severely damaged its military capabilities, and controlled the Strait of Hormuz. However, a Reuters/Ipsos poll found that only 25% of Americans consider the war worthwhile, while more than two-thirds disapprove of Trump's handling. Critics argue that calling the war "small potatoes" trivializes the sacrifices of American service members and economic hardships faced by households.

Trump's aides have tried to keep the conflict from becoming an electoral issue as the midterms approach, but the president's supporters argue that it has achieved its objective of stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.