President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the United States will not resume military strikes on Iran before the November 3 midterm elections. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran, with Trump emphasizing the need to focus on domestic priorities ahead of the midterms.

White House officials confirmed the administration will maintain its current policy of restraint toward Iran, avoiding any escalation of hostilities. This follows a series of diplomatic and military posturing from both sides, including recent Iranian missile tests and US sanctions. Trump’s statement was delivered during a press briefing, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to a “peaceful resolution” of conflicts with Iran.

This policy shift marks a departure from previous rhetoric, where Trump had previously called for a “total and complete shutdown of the Islamic State” and expressed strong opposition to Iran’s nuclear program. The decision reflects a broader strategy to avoid provoking further conflict during a critical period for the US political calendar.

The announcement follows a recent AP-NORC poll showing that most Americans believe artificial intelligence is developing too quickly and that the government should prioritize keeping AI under human control. While the poll focuses on a separate issue, it highlights growing public concern about technological advancement and its implications for national security.

The midterms, scheduled for November 3, will determine control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, making them a pivotal moment for the US political landscape. Trump’s decision to avoid military action against Iran is seen as an effort to stabilize the political environment ahead of the elections.