Division in Trump Administration Over Iran War Following Election Defeat

The Wall Street Journal, citing informed sources, reported that US President Donald Trump's administration is facing a division over the future of the war with Iran following the Republicans' defeat in congressional elections.

The Wall Street Journal, citing informed sources, reported that US President Donald Trump's administration has begun to face a division over the future of the war with Iran following the Republicans' defeat in the midterm congressional elections.

The newspaper stated that some officials in the administration are pushing Trump to launch new strikes against Iran before signing a peace agreement that would allow ending the war before his presidential term expires.

It added that other officials believe it is necessary to settle for the losses incurred by the United States and end the military operation, rather than continuing an ill-advised adventure with unclear prospects for settlement.

These disagreements came after the midterm elections held on November 3, where Republicans lost control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate to the Democrats, according to announced results, although not all electoral races had been decided yet.

The elections included all 435 seats in the House of Representatives, along with 35 seats in the Senate.

The United States and Israel began launching strikes on targets inside Iran on February 28, and Tehran responded with counterattacks. Despite periods of calm witnessed by the conflict, the parties did not reach a final settlement, amid the continued risk of renewed military confrontations.

In a development reflecting the widening rift within the administration, US Vice President JD Vance blamed the war on Iran for the Republicans' defeat on November 4, while Trump acknowledged that the conflict contributed to the electoral loss but affirmed he does not regret the decision to start military operations.

The Wall Street Journal revealed that Trump consulted close associates about whether Secretary of War Pete Hegseth should remain in his position, given the latter's support for continuing attacks on Iran, versus calls from Vance and other officials to end the conflict.

In contrast, Democratic leader in the Senate Chuck Schumer announced that his party will work to end the war, relying on the anticipated Democratic control of Congress and its powers to approve funding.

These developments coincided with continued military tension, as US forces carried out strikes on Iranian targets in Qesh Island on November 2, which Washington described as defensive. Tehran confirmed its adherence to its conditions for reaching an agreement, including lifting the siege and releasing its frozen assets.