TRUMP SAYS IRAN WAR PLAYED ROLE IN US MIDTERMS DEFEAT

US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that the war involving Iran contributed to the Republican Party's disappointing performance in the 2026 midterm elections, as Democrats prepare to take control of both chambers of Congress.

Trump made the admission during separate interviews with Fox News and The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, November 4, while discussing the factors behind the Republican losses.

Asked whether the conflict influenced the election outcome, Trump admitted that Iran was part of the problem, although he maintained that American voters understood the importance of his administration's military actions.

Despite acknowledging the political consequences, the president insisted that he had made the right decision by launching the military campaign against Iran. He said he had no regrets and would make the same decision again.

The conflict, which has lasted several months, has become increasingly unpopular among sections of the American public. Rising fuel prices and the growing cost of essential goods have also generated frustration, with Democratic candidates repeatedly linking the economic pressure to the war.

The Republican defeat represents a major political setback for Trump, particularly as Democrats prepare to use their strengthened position in Congress to challenge his policies and increase scrutiny of his administration.

Trump, however, rejected suggestions that the results amounted to a rejection of his presidency. He argued that his absence from the ballot was a significant factor and maintained that some Republican candidates had failed to convince voters.

The president also indicated that he was prepared to work with Democratic lawmakers but warned that he would use his veto powers if they pursued legislation he considered unacceptable.

Meanwhile, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf welcomed the election outcome, describing it as a rejection of the war by American voters.

The results have intensified questions about the political and economic consequences of Trump's foreign policy decisions as his administration faces a more challenging relationship with Congress.