US President Donald Trump has ruled out renewed American strikes on Iran before the midterm elections on 3 November, saying Washington and Tehran are continuing discussions.
According to Anadolu, Trump made the announcement on Truth Social on Thursday, 8 October, describing the talks as “productive”.
However, he said the US blockade would remain in force. His statement did not announce a permanent ceasefire or an agreement ending the conflict.
Earlier ceasefire agreement broke down
The latest announcement follows the collapse of an earlier attempt to secure peace.
The Associated Press reported that a June agreement between Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was intended to establish a 60-day ceasefire and provide a framework for a permanent settlement.
It collapsed within weeks amid renewed military action and disputes over control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday that Tehran expected to respond to a US counterproposal within days, AP reported.
Nuclear disagreements persist
According to Reuters, Iran’s state media reported that Tehran would not abandon uranium enrichment or hand over its uranium stockpile.
Washington wants substantial reductions in Iran’s enrichment capacity. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons.
The war began with US and Israeli strikes in February. Higher petrol prices linked to the conflict have added to pressure on Republicans as they seek to retain their congressional majorities in November.
Sanctions remain part of US pressure
On the same day as Trump’s announcement, the US Treasury announced sanctions targeting 17 vessels and associated companies.
Treasury accused the vessels of transporting Iranian crude oil, petroleum, and petrochemical products to markets in South and East Asia. The measures form part of its Operation Economic Outcast campaign.
Trivane View
Trump’s pledge provides a stated period without renewed US attacks, while negotiations continue. It should be assessed alongside the continuing blockade, sanctions, and unresolved nuclear dispute.
The announcement does not establish lasting peace. Equally, the election date should not be treated as a confirmed deadline for renewed strikes. The next substantive development will be whether negotiations produce agreed terms that both sides implement.
