Trump tells TIME the U.S. could resume or intensify attacks against Iran after the midterm elections

According to the interview with TIME, Trump initially expected the conflict to last only four to six weeks, but seven months later there is still no clear end in sight. The conflict has disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, pushed energy prices higher and created significant economic and geopolitical consequences. Trump continues to defend the decision to launch the war, arguing that military action was necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He points to the subsequent weakening of Iran's position as evidence that the campaign has achieved important objectives. At the same time, however, the prolonged conflict has made it increasingly difficult for the administration to find a way to end the war while preserving those gains. The Strait of Hormuz and the economic impact The Strait of Hormuz has become a central part of the conflict because of its importance to global energy markets. Iran's ability to disrupt oil flows through the Strait has contributed to a sharp increase in energy prices, with gasoline prices in the US rising substantially since the beginning of the war. The economic consequences have extended beyond the energy market. Higher oil prices have added to inflationary pressures at a time when Trump's tariff policies are also contributing to higher costs. The combination has complicated the Federal Reserve's policy decisions and contributed to higher interest rates and mortgage costs. The conflict has therefore created a direct link between developments in the Middle East and financial conditions in the US. The growing cost of the war The conflict has also placed pressure on US military resources. During the interview, Trump acknowledged that stocks of some types of ammunition have fallen after the US used large quantities of missile interceptors and other military equipment. He argues that the administration has already reached agreements with defense companies to expand production and replenish supplies. The war has also