Trump rules out Iran strikes before midterms

President Trump announced on Thursday that the United States would not initiate military strikes against Iran in the weeks leading up to the November 3 midterm elections. The potential for such attacks had been under consideration for several days, with sources indicating they could involve major combat operations against Iranian energy facilities, infrastructure, and nuclear targets.

Such a move could have significant implications, not only for the U.S. midterm elections due to potential oil price fluctuations but also for Israel's elections scheduled for October 27.

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that while Iran is economically and militarily weakened, and the blockade remains in place, the U.S. will not attack Iran prior to the midterm elections. The Pentagon had earlier instructed U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to finalize preparations for resuming major combat operations in Iran, according to Axios.

Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir spoke with senior U.S. officials regarding the U.S. military's readiness to resume combat operations against Iran within a three-week period. Zamir reportedly expressed concern that such a move could lead to the postponement of Israel's elections due to the anticipated Iranian response. However, the IDF did not comment on these conversations with U.S. counterparts.

Despite Trump's reassurance, it remains uncertain whether the statement will ease tensions for Iranian leaders, who are widely believed to be skeptical of his claims. Both U.S. and Israeli officials maintain that Iranian leaders are deeply suspicious of Trump's statements and are keen to avoid any surprise attacks. The relationship between the two nations remains tense, with no signs of significant progress in resolving their major differences.