Trump declares Iran war 'effectively over' after midterm drubbing weakens presidency

Trump told reporters Tuesday the Iran war is "effectively over" with "positive momentum" toward ending it, following an Oval Office meeting with Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed Al Thani. He said renewed attacks are "highly unlikely" though US forces remain "locked and loaded."

The declaration comes days after Republicans suffered sweeping midterm losses, losing contested and deep-red districts alike. Key officials including VP JD Vance blamed the Iran war for the defeat. Trump himself admitted the conflict influenced voters. Democrats now control Congress, reshaping his final two years.

Republican Congressman Thomas Massie has filed an impeachment resolution against Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth over the war. Trump backed Hegseth, calling the effort a "sham."

For Nigeria, a weakened Trump presidency could shift US-Africa policy focus. Oil markets—already volatile from Middle East tensions—may stabilise if de-escalation holds. The question is whether Trump's "status quo" approach holds or if domestic pressure forces his hand.

Will a lame-duck Trump prioritise Africa engagement, or will his final two years focus entirely on survival?

SOURCE: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/foreign/924064-trump-says-iran-war-effectively-over.html