President Donald Trump said an escalation of military strikes against Iran is possible after the November midterm elections, as his administration looks for an exit strategy for a war now entering its eighth month.
In an interview with Time magazine published Thursday, Donald Trump said he believes Iran is delaying diplomatic talks until after the elections, where the Republican Party is fighting to maintain control of the United States Congress. The President rejected a recent proposal from Tehran to restore shipping in the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for ending the blockade of Iranian ports or easing oil sanctions.
Rejection of Concessions and State of the US Arsenal
When asked if bombings might resume after the election, Trump called it possible, but declined to provide specific details about potential targets. “I can’t tell you that because, you know, you’re asking where you’re going to drop bombs,” he added in response to follow-up questions.
Trump also downplayed concerns about U.S. ammunition stockpiles, saying the country has “plenty of weapons,” including lower-grade munitions. He said stocks of some munitions are slightly lower than others, but the mid- and high-grade arsenal is more powerful than ever before.
Impact of War on Voter Sentiment
Polls show that voters disapprove of how Trump is managing the war, which has led to rising energy prices. This is putting additional pressure on household budgets ahead of the elections, where the cost of living is a key issue for citizens.
Source: Bloomberg
