Trump could launch major Iran operation if Republicans lose midterms: Axios

US President Donald Trump could consider escalating military action against Iran if Republicans perform poorly in next week’s midterm elections, according to a report by Axios, as diplomatic efforts to restore negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue.

A US official told Axios that Trump might resort to a bold move if he feels politically weakened by the election outcome. The official said Iranian authorities were being given the message that the current period offered their best opportunity to reach an agreement with Washington.

However, a White House official dismissed the suggestion that the midterm results would influence the president’s decisions on Iran, saying the election would not be a factor in determining US policy.

The report said Qatari mediators held more than 12 hours of discussions in Tehran on Friday, maintaining contact with the White House as they sought to bring the two sides back to direct negotiations. A diplomatic source described the discussions as showing “positive progress”, with further meetings scheduled to take place in Doha on Saturday.

Efforts to revive the talks remain complicated by differences over the conditions for negotiations. Washington is seeking commitments from Tehran on its nuclear programme, while Iran wants the United States to end its naval blockade, release frozen Iranian assets and permit the resumption of oil exports.

According to Axios, Qatar is also pressing Iran to grant United Nations inspectors access to nuclear facilities damaged in the US-Israeli attacks, in return for limited sanctions relief.

The report also highlighted differing positions within the Trump administration over how to deal with Tehran. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are reportedly doubtful that an agreement can be reached and favour further weakening Iran’s leadership.

Vice President JD Vance, along with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are said to support renewed diplomatic engagement.

The developments come as tensions remain high between Washington and Tehran over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for international energy supplies.

The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, prompting Tehran to retaliate against targets across the region.

Although diplomatic efforts followed and Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding in June, disputes over security arrangements and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz have continued to strain relations.