Trump rules out new attack on Iran before US midterm elections

President Donald Trump has ruled out attacking Iran before the US midterm elections on November 3, insisting Washington was engaged in productive discussions with Tehran. Despite ongoing unrest and a surge in oil prices, driven by reports of potential new strikes, Trump made it clear that the embargo on Iran would remain in full force during the elections.

He emphasized that Iran is in a "very bad condition" both economically and militarily, while the blockade will be fully enforced. The White House had reportedly asked the Pentagon to develop strike options on Iranian targets before the midterms, but Trump remained ambivalent about the possibility. Rising crude oil prices have also been fueled by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and hostilities between Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen and Saudi Arabia.

Polls indicate that US voters are dissatisfied with the impact of rising fuel prices, which some attribute to the conflict between the US and Iran since February. Despite Trump's claims that the Iran war is effectively won, voters have not changed their stance. The midterm elections will significantly impact the final two years of Trump's presidency as his Republican Party risks losing control of Congress.

Trump, who is not on the ballot, has been actively campaigning to minimize the political damage or potentially turn the tide. He warned of facing a possible third impeachment if Democrats regain the House of Representatives, and the White House is preparing for investigations into corruption and abuse of power. Additionally, Trump addressed concerns over his comments claiming Iran could target Los Angeles and San Diego, attributing the misinterpretation to "fake and artificial news" and explaining the remarks were intended to convey that a temporary gasoline price increase is a small price to pay for preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.