WASHINGTON D.C Oct 8, 2026 – President Trump said Thursday the United States will not attack Iran before the November 3 midterm elections, citing ongoing talks while affirming that a naval blockade of Iranian ports remains in force.
In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote that the two sides are “having productive discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran.” He added that Iran is “in very bad condition, both Economically and Militarily,” that the blockade “will remain in full force and effect,” and that oil continues to move through the Strait of Hormuz. He claimed 22 million barrels passed the strait the previous night, “with not one barrel coming from, or going to, Iran.” The post concluded: “we will not be attacking Iran at any time prior to the Midterm Elections to be held in the United States on November 3rd. IRAN WILL NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!”
The statement followed reporting that the White House had asked the Pentagon to prepare limited strike options that could be used before the elections. Administration officials had said all options remained available. Trump’s post marked a shift from comments a day earlier in which he indicated he was not seeking a deal and that renewed action was under consideration. Oil prices, which had risen on escalation fears, eased somewhat after the announcement.
The conflict began in February when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran. It has since included a U.S. naval blockade aimed at Iranian oil exports, intermittent exchanges of fire, and disputes over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. officials say commercial traffic through the strait continues under American and regional protection, while Iran has at times claimed greater control of the waterway. Tehran has rejected demands to end uranium enrichment or surrender its stockpile, according to Iranian state media.
The war has become a domestic political issue. Polling has shown majority disapproval of Trump’s handling of the situation, including among a portion of Republicans, amid higher gasoline prices and cost-of-living concerns ahead of the midterms. Trump has previously said he expects the conflict to conclude quickly after the elections and oil prices to fall. No major new U.S. strikes have been reported in recent weeks, though both sides continue military preparations and diplomatic exchanges.
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