Trump says Iran war will end after November US midterm elections

President Donald Trump said Wednesday the war with Iran will be over immediately after the US midterm elections in November, accusing Tehran of trying to influence the vote by prolonging the conflict.

“I think war is going to end immediately after the election because they can’t hold out any longer. They’re desperate to try and affect the election,” Trump told reporters before travelling to Dallas for the Republican Party’s midterm convention.

Trump said Iran is trying to influence the election in hopes of getting a more favourable US administration. He also said that oil and petrol prices would drop once the conflict was over.

His remarks came as the war entered its seventh month and as new attacks near the Strait of Hormuz helped to drive up oil prices. On Wednesday, Brent crude topped $100 a barrel for the first time since July, Reuters reported.

Trump said talks with Tehran were possible but not currently happening.

“Yes, a negotiation could possibly happen, but it’s not something we’re looking at,” he said.

Trump’s forecast contrasts with warnings from some of his top advisers that the war could possibly last until the end of his presidency in 2029.