Is Washington preparing to strike Iran ahead of the midterm elections?

With diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran stalled, the White House instructed the Pentagon to assemble military strike options targeting Iranian nuclear, energy, and infrastructure sites before November, though officials emphasize no final order has been issued.

Addressing United Nations delegates, Donald Trump claimed adversaries were watching the political calendar, saying: They're waiting to see how I do in the midterm election. What they don't realize is I'm not running. The Republican Party is running and I'll be helping them, but I am not running.

Amid regional tensions, Brent crude oil reached 104 dollars a barrel, underscoring concerns that any renewed military action could push fuel prices higher before voters cast their ballots.