Trump May Shift Iran Policy Post-US Midterms, Expert Says
Former Israeli Consul to Los Angeles and US affairs commentator Yaki Dayan believes President Donald Trump will likely avoid further escalation with Iran until after the US midterm elections on November 3. Dayan, speaking on Israel's 103FM radio and reported by Maariv, suggested that Trump's focus before the elections is on preventing new escalations, not just concerning Iran but also the situation in Gaza.
However, Dayan anticipates a potential shift in Trump's approach after the midterms, as the president may begin to prioritize his presidential legacy. He identified November 4 as a significant date for future US decisions regarding Tehran, stating, "From November 4, he will enter a new stage of his life, from the political stage to the stage of forming his legacy."
Dayan also commented on Iran's pressure on Saudi Arabia, suggesting it could be an attempt to influence the US through the global energy market. He posited that rising oil prices create economic and political challenges for the Trump administration.
Trump is expected to meet with leaders of Gulf states in New York next week during the UN General Assembly. Dayan believes these regional leaders may urge Trump to prevent a new conflict with Iran, though their positions vary. Qatar, he noted, desires a swift end to the war, while the United Arab Emirates might adopt a tougher stance on Iran.
Ultimately, Dayan expressed uncertainty about Trump's post-election path, questioning whether he will seek to be an "emperor or a Nobel Peace Prize laureate."
