US President Donald Trump has ruled out launching new attacks on Iran before the November 3 midterm elections, citing ongoing “productive discussions” with Tehran. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump said the US blockade would remain in place but insisted that Washington would not strike Iran before the elections.

The announcement followed a sharp rise in global oil prices amid reports that the White House had asked the Pentagon to prepare options for potential strikes against Iranian targets. Persistent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and regional hostilities have further fuelled concerns over global oil supplies, with Brent crude reaching $105.88 a barrel on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to do everything within Russia’s power to help end the Middle East conflict during talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Turkmenistan. Pezeshkian said Iran wanted a final framework to end the war but criticised Washington’s approach, arguing that unilateral demands would prevent a resolution.

The conflict and rising fuel prices are also emerging as significant political challenges ahead of the US midterms. Trump is campaigning to protect his Republican Party’s control of Congress, while defending his remarks about the potential consequences of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. The elections will play a crucial role in determining the political direction of the remaining two years of his presidency.