Trump expects Iran strikes to resume after US midterm elections

US officials have said that President Donald Trump informed his aides he expects strikes on Iran to resume after the US midterm elections.

According to The Wall Street Journal, US officials said Trump rejected an Iranian proposal for a seven-day ceasefire and has expressed skepticism in closed-door meetings about Iran meeting his demands.

The newspaper reported that Trump’s position could shift as the conflict continues and may be influenced by the outcome of the congressional midterm elections. However, officials noted that Washington and Tehran are still negotiating through intermediaries, including on the nuclear issue.

The report added that the United States believes economic pressure will force Tehran to sign an agreement. Washington has informed Iran and mediators that Trump does not intend to lift the maritime embargo on Iran, and US efforts to ensure the passage of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz have reduced the urgency to reach a deal.