US President Donald Trump could consider stepping up military action against Iran if Republicans perform poorly in next week’s midterm elections, according to a report citing a US official. The report comes as diplomatic efforts to restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue.
The US official said Trump might take a bold step if the election result left him feeling politically weakened. The official added that Iranian authorities had been told the present moment offered their best chance to reach an agreement with Washington. A White House official rejected the idea that the midterm results would shape the president’s Iran decisions, saying the vote would play no part in US policy.
Qatari mediators push to restart direct talks
The report said Qatari mediators held more than 12 hours of discussions in Tehran on Friday while staying in contact with the White House. They were trying to bring both sides back to direct negotiations. A diplomatic source described the talks as showing “positive progress”, and further meetings are scheduled in Doha on Saturday.
Also read: Trump signals possible new US military action against Iran · Qatari mediators arrive in Tehran to revive US-Iran ceasefire
Progress remains difficult because the two sides disagree on the conditions for talks. Washington wants Tehran to make commitments on its nuclear programme. Iran, for its part, wants the United States to end its naval blockade, release frozen Iranian assets and allow oil exports to resume.
According to the report, Qatar is also urging Iran to give United Nations inspectors access to nuclear facilities damaged in the US-Israeli attacks. In return, Qatar is offering limited sanctions relief.
Divisions inside the Trump administration over Iran
The report also pointed to contrasting views within the administration on how to handle Tehran. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are reportedly doubtful that an agreement can be reached. They are said to favour further weakening Iran’s leadership.
Vice President JD Vance, along with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, is said to support renewed diplomatic engagement.
Strait of Hormuz tensions follow earlier strikes
The developments come as tensions stay high over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for international energy supplies. The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, and Tehran retaliated against targets across the region.
Diplomacy followed, and Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding in June. However, disputes over security arrangements and freedom of navigation through the strait have continued to strain relations.
