Trump Predicts End to Iran Conflict Post-Midterm Elections

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that he believes the conflict with Iran will conclude "right after" the midterm elections scheduled for November. Trump asserted that Tehran is attempting to influence the American elections but "won't be able to last much longer." Speaking to reporters before heading to Dallas for a Republican Party conference, Trump elaborated that the "war will end an hour after the elections," reiterating that Iran's efforts to sway the vote would ultimately fail.

He also commented on oil prices, which have risen amid the tensions. Trump suggested that prices are unlikely to decrease before the elections but are expected to drop immediately afterward. This statement followed Brent crude oil surpassing $100 a barrel for the first time since July, marking a more than 3% increase due to the escalating confrontation between the U.S. and Iran.

Trump characterized Iran's primary objective as obtaining a nuclear weapon, adding that the U.S. is "not looking for a deal," though he did not rule out future negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The president's remarks come after an earlier prediction that the conflict would last only weeks, whereas it has now entered its seventh month with ongoing reciprocal strikes and increased targeting of U.S. interests and forces in the region.

In a separate matter, Trump indicated he would discuss British sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank with Israeli officials. Israeli media had previously reported that the Trump administration did not oppose the British initiative to impose new sanctions on settlements and made no attempt to block it. Reports also suggested that British Prime Minister Andy Burnham had informed Trump of the move in advance, without the president requesting its withdrawal.