Iran is preparing for continued conflict regardless of the outcomes of the U.S. midterm elections and Israel’s recent national elections. With no clear winner in Israel’s vote, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right alliance failed to secure a majority, leading to political uncertainty. In the U.S., Democrats are poised to potentially gain control of the House, which could limit President Trump’s war policies.
Analysts say Tehran expects more attacks no matter who holds power. Hamidreza Azizi of the International Crisis Group notes Iran has been preparing for renewed war for weeks. Even if opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot takes power in Israel, Iranian policy toward Israel has remained consistent since the 1980s, with any shifts likely temporary.
Iran may respond to covert Israeli actions with direct military strikes, reflecting a strategic shift from patience to risk-taking. With high inflation and economic strain, Iran’s leadership shows no willingness to concede. Meanwhile, the Trump administration may seek a deal with Iran before the midterms to boost Republican prospects, but Tehran sees little incentive to compromise.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing