President Trump has assured that the United States will not launch an attack on Iran before the midterm elections on November 3. He mentioned having “productive conversations” with Iran but did not elaborate further. Despite Iran’s challenging economic and military situation, Trump emphasized that the blockade remains effective, with a record flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, none of which involves Iran. Reports had surfaced about potential U.S. strikes on Iran, but Trump dismissed these claims. The U.S. military continues to protect oil shipments through the strait, with 22 million barrels moved in one night, a figure comparable to prewar levels. Meanwhile, tensions in the Middle East have escalated, with Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis targeting Saudi Arabia, including its capital, Riyadh. The Houthis have intensified attacks on Saudi infrastructure, warning workers to evacuate oil facilities. The Saudi-led coalition has intercepted missiles aimed at Riyadh, but debris from these interceptions has caused damage to civilian areas, including a kindergarten and a medical complex. The conflict in Yemen, which had been dormant since 2022, reignited in July, leading to unprecedented attacks on Saudi Arabia.
QUESTION: How might the ongoing conflict between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia impact global oil prices and international relations?
Trump promises not to resume Iran strikes before midterm elections
