Donald Trump faces mounting pressure as Iran war drags on ahead of US midterms

US President Donald Trump is approaching his 80th birthday while his administration wrestles with a protracted conflict with Iran. The war, which began on 28 February with joint US‑Israeli operations, was originally billed as a four‑to‑six‑week campaign but has extended to roughly four months, with Iranian forces blockading the Strait of Hormuz and complicating global oil shipments. Trump has repeatedly signalled hopes for a quick settlement, even posting live‑blog style updates from the White House Situation Room, but no agreement has materialised.

Domestically, Trump’s popularity has slipped to roughly 35‑38 % of voters, and Republican members of Congress are increasingly vocal about ending the Iran fight. The looming US midterm elections in November add urgency, as losses in the House and Senate could erode the Republican majority needed to sustain his policy agenda. Critics point to rising gasoline prices and war fatigue among Americans as potential factors that could shape the election outcome.