United States President Donald Trump has predicted that the war with Iran will end immediately after the November midterm elections, despite continued fighting and growing attacks on commercial shipping in the region.
Trump made the prediction on Wednesday as the conflict entered its seventh month, arguing that Iran would eventually be unable to withstand sustained US economic pressure.
“I think war is going to end immediately after the election,” Trump said.
He accused Tehran of trying to influence the November vote but insisted that Iran would ultimately be unable to continue the conflict.
Shipping Attacks Escalate
Trump’s comments came during one of the most intense periods of the conflict, with oil tankers and commercial vessels coming under attack around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Iran said it had attacked 10 ships near the waterway after the United States destroyed five Iranian oil tankers.
The escalating confrontation has also sent oil prices higher. Brent crude recently rose above $100 a barrel for the first time since July, increasing pressure on consumers and businesses.
Trump said he expected oil prices to fall once the conflict ends, while acknowledging that negotiations with Tehran remained possible.
“Yes, a negotiation could possibly happen, but it’s not something we’re looking at,” he said.
War Becomes US Election Issue
The conflict is increasingly becoming a political issue in the United States as higher fuel prices add to wider cost-of-living pressures.
Trump’s approval ratings have also fallen sharply amid dissatisfaction over the war and the broader economic situation.
The November 3 midterm elections will determine control of both chambers of Congress and are expected to provide a major test of Trump’s presidency.
Republicans are seeking to retain control of Congress, while Democrats are hoping to regain ground in both the House and Senate.
Republicans Rally Behind Trump
Trump spoke as Republicans gathered in Dallas for their first national midterm convention, aimed at mobilising support ahead of the elections.
Although constitutionally barred from seeking a third presidential term, Trump remains the central figure in the Republican campaign.
Vice President JD Vance is expected to take a prominent role at the convention as attention increasingly shifts towards the party’s future beyond Trump.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Under Pressure
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to threaten international shipping and global energy supplies.
The Strait of Hormuz remains heavily disrupted, while an expanding Houthi offensive in Yemen has raised fresh concerns over shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea.
The continuing disruption could keep pressure on energy markets and global trade as the US election approaches.
