Trump’s Iran war options narrow after Democrats take Congress
Why it matters: Gulf officials now see a negotiated exit as more likely, but warn political weakness could still drive fresh strikes.
President Donald Trump faces shrinking room to escalate the Iran war after Democrats won control of Congress in the Nov. 3 midterm elections. Gulf officials and analysts told The Straits Times the result increases pressure for a negotiated off-ramp after months of fighting that disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and pushed up fuel prices. The war began with US-Israeli strikes on Feb. 28 and spread as Iran hit Gulf targets and maritime traffic. The campaign damaged Iran’s military capabilities but did not settle the nuclear dispute. Analysts also warned the election setback could cut two ways: it may push Trump toward a deal, or toward limited new strikes if he seeks to avoid looking defeated.