In the run-up to the midterm elections, Iranian state media is gleefully chronicling high prices at American gas pumps and their impact on President Trump's political standing. Tehran's Fars News Agency cites polls reflecting voter anger at Mr. Trump over his conflict with Iran. Iranian officials are piling on, with the Parliament speaker mocking a spike in Treasury bond rates and warning of a return to 1970s-style economic conditions. Iranian leaders clearly relish the political damage Mr. Trump has suffered, even as their own economy suffers extreme stress from U.S. sanctions and an American naval blockade. There are signs that political and economic pressure has pulled Mr. Trump back from the brink of military escalation, and the election result could determine what steps the United States takes next.
Iranian officials have long threatened to affect U.S. elections to gain leverage. After the 1979 embassy hostage crisis, U.S. intelligence concluded Iran drew out the crisis to bring about President Carter's defeat. Mr. Trump has faced credible threats, including a recent conviction of an Iranian intelligence agent plotting assassination. Humiliating the president at the polls is seen by analysts as a way for Iran to get satisfaction without more drastic action. Iran's ability to menace the Strait of Hormuz and attack energy infrastructure has given it valuable insights into exerting pressure over the U.S. and global economy. However, analysts warn Iranian leaders are growing concerned about what might come after the elections, as Mr. Trump may feel freer to take drastic action in his final two years. Iran hawks hope Mr. Trump will carry out new attacks on nuclear facilities, with the military concentrating forces and preparing for heavy strikes in the region.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing