Iran has intentionally extended negotiations with the United States to influence the political situation of Donald Trump, the President of the United States, ahead of the November midterm elections. This action comes as concerns about the possibility of renewed military action and deep distrust of Washington have reduced Tehran's willingness to reach a quick agreement.
Military and Political Tensions Ahead of U.S. Elections
Three senior Iranian officials and a knowledgeable source have informally stated that Tehran is confident the U.S. President is prepared to resort to new military actions to break the eight-month stalemate of the war. One of these officials said: "Iran is preparing for new Israeli and American attacks, not for an agreement with the U.S. to end the war." This comes as Trump has repeatedly stated that he expects oil prices to drop after the elections, but has yet to provide a specific plan to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Read more: J.D. Vance: Iran's Control of the Strait of Hormuz Will Lead to Higher Gas Prices
Economic and Strategic Consequences
The war that began in February has led to a severe reduction in ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran, through its threatening attacks and U.S. maritime sanctions, has drastically reduced its oil revenues and exacerbated domestic economic problems. Specifically, Iran's oil exports reached zero in the second week of September. Additionally, the annual inflation rate in September reached 73.6 percent, and the value of the Iranian rial has decreased by nearly 35 percent against the dollar.
Iran continuously responds to political pressures on the international stage and seeks to maintain negotiations to keep the pressure on Washington. Iranian officials believe that the existence of deep distrust of the U.S. will prevent the achievement of a sustainable agreement in the future.
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