Trump Could Authorize Major Military Operation Against Iran if Republicans Lose Midterm Elections
U.S. President Donald Trump could authorize a major military operation against Iran if Republicans perform poorly in the upcoming midterm elections, according to a report by U.S. news outlet Axios.
Citing a U.S. official, Axios reported Friday that Trump could take a significant action if he feels politically embarrassed or weakened by the election outcome. The official reportedly said that if Trump finds himself in such a position, “he will do something big.”
A similar message is reportedly being conveyed to Iranian officials, urging Tehran to recognize that the current moment presents its best opportunity to reach an agreement with Washington.
However, a White House official rejected the suggestion that the midterm election results would influence Trump’s decisions on Iran, telling Axios that the electoral outcome would have no bearing on the administration’s approach.
The report also comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further military escalation. Qatari mediators held more than 12 hours of talks in Tehran on Friday to help restart direct negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The discussions continued in Doha, with mediators maintaining regular contact with the White House. A diplomatic source described the talks as showing positive progress.
Negotiations remain stalled over competing demands. Washington wants Iran to make concessions on its nuclear programme before resuming talks, while Tehran is demanding that the United States lift its naval blockade, release frozen Iranian funds and allow oil sales. Qatar is also urging Iran to grant UN inspectors access to nuclear facilities damaged in previous attacks in exchange for limited sanctions relief. Anadolu
Differences have also emerged within the Trump administration over how to approach Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are reportedly skeptical of reaching an agreement and favor further weakening Iran’s leadership. Vice President JD Vance, along with special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, support renewed negotiations.
Despite the reported discussions, Trump has not announced a final decision on further military action. The White House maintains that the midterm election results will not determine his approach to Iran. The
