President Trump stated unequivocally that he would not resume attacks on Iran after the midterm elections, responding with a single word, "No," when questioned by journalists.
This declaration comes amid reports of "very intensive" peace talks between the U.S. and Iran, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The news of these negotiations has coincided with a significant drop in oil prices. Trump himself acknowledged the plummeting oil prices in remarks made at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, where he delivered a final appeal to midterm voters. He noted that oil prices were falling sharply, describing it as a record plunge.
Trump previously indicated to Axios that "One way or the other, we will do something, but there is no rush." Vice President JD Vance echoed this sentiment, suggesting progress in negotiations while acknowledging the unpredictability of Iranian leadership.
The ongoing conflict with Iran has been a significant issue in the midterm campaigns, particularly due to its impact on oil and diesel prices, and the subsequent rise in inflation. Trump highlighted that oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz has increased since the conflict began, offering a potential easing of economic pressures.
"We had a war with Iran. We won," Trump stated, adding that major fighting had ceased months prior. He also mentioned controlling the Strait of Hormuz and reported that more oil was transiting the waterway than before the war. "We wiped out their military and their air force, and we did everything we had to do — wiped out their leaders… and they’ve asked us, ‘Please stop doing that’, and we will," Trump said, expressing optimism about the ongoing discussions.