Washington continues to signal the possibility of new military strikes after the congressional elections, while Tehran maintains its conditions, as diplomatic efforts expand to avoid another confrontation amid the continuing blockade and the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

October 28, 2026

Prepared and Analyzed by | Strategic Media Department – BETH News Agency

Key Developments

The US–Iran war has entered a new phase of anticipation, with growing indications that Washington is preparing for additional military operations against Iran following the congressional midterm elections on November 3, while prospects for reaching a political settlement remain limited.

US Moves: Reports indicated that Washington had informed several Gulf countries of the possibility of launching a short, intensive military campaign against Iran after the elections.

Iranian Position: Tehran continues to demand the lifting of sanctions and the easing of the blockade, amid ongoing disagreements over the nuclear program and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, with no confirmed indications that it has accepted US conditions.

Diplomatic Efforts: Gulf countries, with the participation of regional parties, are working to develop understandings covering the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, addressing the nuclear issue, and reducing tensions in Yemen. Reports indicate that Iran has offered to reopen the strait within four days of the lifting of sanctions, but disagreements over guarantees and nuclear inspections remain unresolved.

Nuclear Issue: The International Atomic Energy Agency has warned that it remains unable to verify the status of Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium, keeping the nuclear issue among the main obstacles to reaching a settlement.

Commentary

The days leading up to the congressional elections have become an important period.

The next phase will depend on Washington's decision and the Iranian regime's willingness to make verifiable concessions.

Meanwhile, the continuation of the blockade and the disruption of navigation mean that the cost of the confrontation will remain, whether new strikes begin or negotiations continue.