Trump Announces Suspension of Attacks on Iran

US President Donald Trump has stated that no new military attacks will be launched against Iran before the US midterm elections. He made this announcement on social media on Thursday (October 15), with the upcoming November 3 election in mind. The US President also noted progress in discussions with Iran.

While campaigning for Republican candidates this week, Trump hinted at his optimism regarding the resolution of conflict with Iran ahead of the election. However, he did not entirely rule out the possibility of launching a full-scale military operation against the country.

On Thursday, Trump wrote on his social media platform, "There will be no attacks on Iran before the US midterm elections on November 3." He further mentioned that discussions between the US and Iran are progressing positively, stating, "We are having productive talks with the Islamic Republic of Iran."

Negotiations between the two nations had effectively stalled late last month after Iran’s proposal—which offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, provided the US met certain conditions—was publicly rejected.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime routes, through which vast quantities of crude oil and natural gas are transported. Consequently, any closure or obstruction of this waterway could have a major impact on the international energy market.

Last week, however, Iran indicated that it had received a counter-proposal from the US. On Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran expects to provide a formal response regarding the matter within the next few days.

Source: NDTV