US President Donald Trump has ruled out a fresh attack on Iran before the United States midterm elections scheduled for 3 November, saying Washington is engaged in “productive discussions” with Tehran.

Mr Trump made the declaration on Thursday through his Truth Social platform, following reports that his administration was considering renewed military strikes against Iranian targets before the elections.

Mr Trump said that although Iran was in a “very bad condition” economically and militarily, the United States would not launch another attack before the 3 November vote.

“I want to make it clear to everybody that, while Iran is in very bad condition, both economically and militarily, and while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect…we will not be attacking Iran at any time prior to the Midterm Elections,” he wrote.

He added, “We are having productive discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

The statement came amid speculation that Washington could resume military operations against Iran before the elections. Reports had indicated that the Pentagon was developing possible strike options, although it remained unclear whether Mr Trump would ultimately authorise them.

Oil prices rise amid attack fears

The reports of possible renewed US military action had contributed to a rise in crude oil prices, with concerns over the potential impact of further conflict on global energy supplies.

Brent crude climbed as high as $105.88 per barrel on Thursday before retreating to about $104.28, according to the report. Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have also continued to influence oil markets, given the waterway’s importance to global energy supplies.

The conflict has also contributed to rising fuel prices in the United States, with polls indicating that American voters are increasingly dissatisfied with the cost of fuel.

Washington and Tehran maintain talks

Mr Trump’s announcement suggests that diplomatic engagement with Tehran remains an option, even as the United States maintains economic and military pressure on Iran.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has, however, expressed scepticism about negotiations with Washington, saying Tehran has engaged in dialogue in the past only for military attacks to follow.

Mr Pezeshkian said Iran wanted a “final framework” capable of ending the conflict.

The United States and Iran had previously reached an interim agreement in June intended to establish a 60-day ceasefire and provide a framework for a permanent settlement, but the arrangement subsequently collapsed amid renewed military action and disputes surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

Midterm elections add political pressure

The decision comes as Mr Trump remains deeply involved in the Republican campaign for the 3 November midterm elections, even though his name will not appear on the ballot.

The elections will determine control of Congress for the remaining two years of his presidency, with Republicans facing the possibility of losing their current grip on the legislature.

The president has repeatedly defended his handling of the Iran conflict and claimed that the United States has effectively won the war. However, renewed military action before the elections could have significant political and economic consequences, particularly if it pushes fuel prices higher.

Russia offers to help end conflict

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow was prepared to assist efforts to end the Middle East conflict.

Mr Putin made the statement after meeting Iranian President Pezeshkian in Turkmenistan, saying Russia was ready to “do everything” within its power to contribute to a settlement.

Mr Pezeshkian said Iran had made efforts to end the war but maintained that previous negotiations with Washington had been followed by attacks.

For now, Mr Trump’s declaration removes the immediate prospect of a new US attack on Iran before the 3 November elections, although the wider conflict, diplomatic talks and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved.