Trump declares Iran war 'effectively over' after midterm losses

Donald Trump declared the Iran war "effectively over" and said the US will hold off on threatened military strikes following the Republicans' defeat in the midterm elections. He cited requests from neighboring countries to avoid new attacks. Trump said the military is "fully locked and loaded" but sees no reason to use it, while maintaining a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. His comments followed a meeting with Qatar's prime minister, who has mediated between Washington and Tehran since the war began on 28 February. Attacks between the sides continue at reduced intensity, with the US striking Iran's Qeshm island overnight and Tehran hitting tankers earlier this month. Trump has rejected Iran's ceasefire plan, which includes ending the blockade and lifting sanctions in exchange for demilitarizing the Strait, though officials doubt an imminent deal.