US leadership shifts strategy toward economic warfare against Iran

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the ongoing conflict with Iran will not prevent Republicans from winning the upcoming midterm elections in November. Speaking to Fox News, Johnson expressed confidence that the party can maintain its majority in the House, noting that while resolving the conflict within 73 days would be beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for electoral success.

President Donald Trump is shifting his strategy toward intensified economic pressure on Tehran. Following the expiration of a 60-day ceasefire that failed to produce a diplomatic breakthrough, the administration is moving from military threats to what Trump described as “the most destructive economic operations ever launched against a nation.”

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reinforced this approach, suggesting that combining naval blockades with economic sanctions will create a “double blow” for Iran. The administration has threatened severe consequences for any countries or financial institutions that continue to facilitate trade with Iran. This strategic pivot comes as Trump faces domestic political pressure regarding the costs of military operations and energy prices, amid polling that shows his approval rating has declined to 33%.