"There will not be a strike," Trump told reporters on Sunday, October 25, before flying to a rally in Port Huron, Michigan. Earlier he told Fox News: "Do I make a deal with them, or do I finish them off? That's the only question." CBS reported that Trump has said any strike will wait until after the November 3 midterms.
1
One red line
Before the rally, Trump told FOX 2 Detroit the war will not end until the US is certain Tehran has no nuclear weapons capability. The goal is single and fixed. The only room to negotiate is how Iran gives up its program.
2
Hormuz in US hands
"Remember, we now control the Hormuz Strait. They get nothing," Trump said. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the window for diplomacy is not closed. One side holds the waterway; the other is trying to keep a seat at the table.
3
Security moves first
A US intelligence memo warned Iran has stepped up efforts to target American personnel. The State Department ordered some diplomats out and adjusted staffing at embassies across the Middle East. Moving people first, then deciding, is standard risk control.
No strike before the vote does not mean the option is gone. The window that matters opens after November 3.
Key FAQ
Q1: What did Trump say about Iran on October 25?
He said there would be no strike that day, and told Fox News the only question is whether to make a deal or "finish them off."
Q2: When could a strike come?
CBS reported Trump has said any strike will wait until after the November 3 midterms, while keeping renewed action on the table.
Q3: What is the US red line?
Trump said the war will not end until the US is certain Tehran has no nuclear weapons capability, adding that the US now controls the Strait of Hormuz.
Sources
- ✓ Bloomberg — Trump Says Decision Nearing on Iran: Deal or 'Finish It Off' — 2026-10-25
- ✓ CBS News — Live Updates: Trump says he's weighing deal with Iran against action to "finish them off" — 2026-10-25
- ✓ Times of Israel — Trump: Do I make a deal with Iran or 'finish them off'? — 2026-10-25
#Iran#Midterms