In brief
Donald Trump has declared that the war in the Middle East, sparked by February attacks on Iran, will end at the hands of his allies only after the U.S. mid‑term elections in November. He warned that the conflict is a short‑term expense that must be suffered to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump’s statements come amid a backdrop of rising oil prices, ongoing naval blockades, and retaliation from Iran’s paramilitary forces. Critics argue that the push for an aggressive foreign policy has already dented Trump’s popularity and that the war’s cost may outweigh its strategic gains. With the election approaching, both sides in the U.S. political arena feel pressure to strike a balance between security and domestic concerns.
Trump, heading to a Republican convention in Texas, told reporters that the war against Iran would cease "immediately after the2024 mid‑term elections". He argued that the United States must endure short‑term high fuel costs to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
The conflict began when the U.S. and Israel attacked Iranian forces in February, a move that retaliated with missiles and drones targeting Israel and U.S.‑hosted airfields in the Gulf. Meanwhile, Iranian attackers seized several oil tankers and hit American vessels, prompting a naval blockade that has crippled Gulf state production.
In the past six months, the benchmark price of Brent crude has swelled beyond £74, with increased supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on U.S. flight bases. The rise in fuels has rippled into higher grocery prices and potential interest‑rate hikes.
Trump also warned that Iran might try to influence the election to break a “weak” government. He acknowledged the possibility of future negotiations, adding that such talks are not a priority at present.
The U.S. federal court records indicate the war has entered its seventh month, and stalwart Republicans fear losing congressional control after the November vote. With the political stakes high, Trump’s press trip to Texas aimed to energise his base ahead of the war‑cost debate.
