President Trump Delays Iran Strikes

President Donald Trump said the United States would not attack Iran before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, reversing his recent openness to pre-election strikes. The announcement followed reports that the White House had asked the Pentagon to prepare strike options; no final decision had been set. The conflict began with U.S. and Israeli strikes in late February, and a June ceasefire collapsed within weeks amid renewed fighting over the Strait of Hormuz. That route carries critical oil shipments, and disruption has raised fuel prices. Trump said a naval blockade on Iranian ports would remain while talks continue. He cited “productive discussions” and Iran’s poor condition. Attacks remained possible afterward, and Tehran expected to answer a U.S. counterproposal within days.