US Maintains Economic Pressure on Iran Until November Midterm Elections, Israel Monitors Situation

The United States, under President Donald Trump, has no intention of rejoining the original nuclear deal with Iran, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal. Trump has repeatedly conveyed his stance to mediators amidst international efforts to revive diplomatic negotiations. Israeli assessments indicate that the US will continue, and possibly intensify, its economic sanctions campaign against Iran, known as the "economic chokehold," at least until the US midterm elections in November.

Israeli political and security officials are closely watching whether the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the economic pressure will compel Iran to compromise on its nuclear program or instead provoke an adverse reaction. Meanwhile, Trump stated on his social media platform Truth Social that "the Iranians are eager to meet and make a deal, but I do not want to."

In related security developments, ahead of the Jewish High Holidays and amid rising nationalist crime, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has increased its alert level and reinforced forces in Judea and Samaria. Although the IDF had planned to reduce troop presence to allow reservists to observe the holidays, the current security situation necessitated heightened readiness. Additionally, reports from Syria indicate that the IDF conducted an attack near the town of Beit Jinn, on the outskirts of Damascus, using two shells.

These developments reflect ongoing tensions in the region as Israel and the US monitor Iran's response to sustained pressure and regional security challenges.