Trump rules out attack on Iran before midterm elections

President Donald Trump has ruled out attacking Iran before the midterm elections scheduled for November 3, according to a statement on his Truth Social platform. In the post, Trump stated that Iran is in a "very bad condition" economically and militarily, and the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz would remain in "full force." The US President also affirmed that Washington is engaged in "productive discussions" with Tehran.

This announcement follows reports in US media suggesting that the US was preparing for renewed military action against Iran prior to the midterm elections. Last month, Trump had claimed that the war with Iran would end "immediately" after the midterm elections, and previously stated that the US was no longer seeking a negotiated end to the conflict.

However, recent polls indicate that the war, which began alongside Israel in February, is unpopular among US voters. Fuel prices and the cost of living have risen due to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a major sticking point for Trump. The Republican President had campaigned on promises of lower costs, blaming inflation on his predecessor, Joe Biden.

With the elections approaching within a month, Trump is facing historically low approval ratings and the midterm elections are crucial for his party, which currently holds narrow majorities in both chambers of Congress.