President Donald Trump stated that the conflict with Iran would conclude "right after the midterms," suggesting that Iran was attempting to prolong the war to influence the election.
"I think very soon," Trump told reporters on Saturday. "I think it’ll be probably right after the midterms. They’re trying to hold out as long as they can, to complicate the election, but I think people are wise to it because Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple."
Speaking alongside Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, Trump reiterated the assertion, often made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that Iran was on the verge of developing a nuclear bomb. "And they would have probably hit us too, before we put out the fire," Trump claimed. "But they cannot have a nuclear weapon. But I would say [the war will end] shortly. And oil will come tumbling down when that happens; oil prices will come tumbling down."
The president's remarks come as he faces declining approval ratings, attributed in part to his administration's handling of the economy and the protracted conflict in the Middle East. Earlier this month, Trump also pledged to send $5,000 to every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans secure victories in the midterm elections.
Trump has provided shifting justifications for initiating the war, and his administration has reportedly failed to achieve its stated objectives. The conflict has coincided with increased gas and food prices, as Iran has responded to U.S. strikes by asserting influence over the Strait of Hormuz.
Relations between the U.S. and Iran escalated Thursday following drone attacks on a major oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia, a U.S. ally. The pipeline was subsequently shut down. Trump, who baselessly attributed the attacks to Iran, sought to allay public concerns.
"I have made a call with [Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman]," Trump said. "He’s a good friend of mine, and it’s going to — I can just say everything’s going to work out fine and dandy. It’s going to be very good."
The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 18 U.S. military personnel and over 3,000 Iranians. Some Republican figures have publicly distanced themselves from Trump, who has framed the midterms as a referendum on his perceived successes, despite widespread criticism of his leadership and falling approval numbers.