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Trump says the US is holding “productive discussions” with Iran and will not launch an attack before the November 3 midterm elections.
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The US blockade of Iranian ports remains in place, while Trump says oil continues to flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
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The seven-month war has become a major political issue in the US, with high fuel prices threatening Republican candidates ahead of the midterms.
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Washington and Tehran have exchanged proposals to end the conflict and reopen the vital energy route, but Trump rejected Iran’s latest offer.
October 08, (THEWILL) – US President Donald Trump has ruled out any American attack on Iran before the November 3 congressional midterm elections, saying Washington is engaged in “productive discussions” with Tehran on ending the seven-month war.
Trump disclosed the position on Thursday in a post on Truth Social, marking a significant shift in tone after months of escalating military confrontation between the United States, Israel and Iran.
“We are having productive discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran”, Trump wrote, adding that the US blockade of Iranian ports remained in effect, while oil continued to flow through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Trump was more explicit about the timing of any possible military escalation, declaring that the United States would not attack Iran before the midterm elections.
“We will not be attacking Iran at any time prior to the Midterm Elections to be held in the United States on November 3rd”, he stated.
The statement comes as Washington and Tehran continue to exchange proposals aimed at ending the conflict and restoring normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies.
War Becomes US Election Issue
The announcement comes against the backdrop of growing political pressure on the Trump administration over the economic cost of the war.
The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran in February, triggering a prolonged conflict that has reportedly cost the United States about $3 billion a month.
The war has also contributed to disruption in energy markets, with higher oil and petrol prices becoming an increasingly sensitive issue for American voters.
Trump has repeatedly predicted that oil prices would fall sharply once the conflict ends, but elevated fuel costs have become a major concern for Republican candidates seeking to retain their congressional majorities.
The timing of Trump’s announcement therefore places the Iran conflict squarely within the political environment surrounding the November elections.
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Strait Of Hormuz At Centre Of Crisis
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation because of its importance to global oil and gas shipments.
Any prolonged disruption to the waterway could affect energy supplies and drive prices higher, creating further economic pressure on consumers and governments.
Trump said oil was still flowing through the strait despite the continuing US blockade of Iranian ports.
Washington and Tehran have been negotiating around proposals that would facilitate the reopening of the waterway as part of a broader agreement to end the war.
Iran’s latest proposal, however, was rejected by Trump, leaving the two sides without a final agreement.
Diplomacy Gains Space
Trump’s decision to rule out an attack before the elections gives diplomatic efforts additional space, although it does not amount to a ceasefire or an end to the conflict.
The US blockade remains in place, and Washington has continued to demand significant concessions from Tehran as part of any settlement.
Iran, for its part, has maintained that it is prepared to pursue diplomacy while defending its national interests and security.
The two sides have exchanged proposals in recent weeks in an effort to end the fighting and restore access through the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest development suggests that, despite the continuing confrontation and unresolved disagreements, both Washington and Tehran are keeping diplomatic channels open.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
