Trump Predicts War Will End After Midterms as Iran Strike Talks Emerge

U.S. and Israeli officials have discussed possible renewed strikes on Iran after the November midterms, according to recent reports, while President Trump has said he expects the war to end immediately after the election. The reporting describes possible operations, not a confirmed decision to resume strikes.

The New York Times reporting cited by TIME says Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed the possibility of renewed strikes with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel this week. The discussions are described as taking place this week, but no exact date is given.

Reported targets include Iran’s missile and drone arsenal. The TIME account also lists energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities as possible targets. Other reporting describes possible post-midterm operations, citing sources briefed on the plans. These reports do not establish that the listed targets have been selected.

The timing creates a contrast with Trump’s prediction. “I think the war is going to end immediately after the election,” he said. The midterm election is scheduled for November 3, 2026. Reports of discussions about possible strikes after that date sit uneasily beside his forecast, but they do not establish why the discussions are timed that way or what underlies his prediction.

The distinction matters: discussion of possible operations is not evidence that strikes are scheduled. If a renewed campaign were to take place, it could extend the conflict beyond the election and bring energy and nuclear infrastructure, regional security, and shipping around the Strait of Hormuz further into focus. Increased attacks on commercial shipping in the strait were reported this week, alongside reports of preparations for possible renewed strikes. The available evidence does not establish what effect, if any, further operations would have on shipping.