Trump Predicts Iran War End Near Midterms; Regional Tensions Flare

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the conflict with Iran would conclude either before or immediately after the upcoming midterm elections. This statement comes as the war, now in its seventh month, continues to impact regional security and energy markets, particularly with ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and rising oil prices.

Trump also expressed no objection to an upcoming summit between Gulf states and Iran in Oman, emphasizing that the decision to hold the meeting rests with the participating nations. The summit aims to address navigation security in the Strait of Hormuz, a focal point of recent tensions. However, reports suggest that any understanding between Iran and Oman may not immediately reopen the strait, as Tehran maintains its conditions for managing maritime traffic.

Meanwhile, regional conflicts persist. Houthi forces in Yemen announced a wave of attacks targeting southern Saudi Arabia, claiming it was retaliation for Saudi airstrikes in Yemen. The Houthis stated they launched ballistic missiles and drones at Saudi military bases in Sharurah. The Yemeni channel "Al-Masirah" reported Saudi airstrikes in Taiz and Saada provinces.

In Lebanon, reports indicated continued Israeli airstrikes in the country's south, targeting areas like Mansouri, Wadi Zibqin, and Haris. In Gaza, two individuals were killed in an airstrike that hit a car in the Tel al-Hawa neighborhood, southwest of Gaza City. Separately, an attack near Qeshm Island in Iran reportedly killed one person and injured three aboard a commercial vessel, according to Iranian state media.