Democrats take control of Congress, pledge to end war with Iran

The Democratic Party won control of both chambers of the U.S. Congress in the midterm elections, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries pledged to work to end the war with Iran, as reports pointed to U.S. military plans that could enable strikes on Iran immediately after the election.

The Democratic Party won control of the Senate and House of Representatives in the U.S. midterm elections held Tuesday, as announced by The Associated Press and NBC News, in a result seen as a strong rebuke of President Donald Trump.

U.S. media outlets viewed the results as reflecting voter anger over rising prices, the eight-month war with Iran and tariffs. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said his party's priorities included ending Trump's war with Iran and restoring Congress's authority over tariffs.

However, the new Congress will not take office until January 3, giving Trump weeks to act under the current balance of power. Israel's Ynet website, citing The New York Times, said U.S. Central Command had prepared plans that could allow strikes on Iran beginning Wednesday, immediately after the election, with three aircraft carriers deployed in the region.

مبنى الكابيتول في واشنطن (صورة أرشيفية)

The report noted that the existence of these plans did not mean Trump had decided to attack, as diplomats were still trying to reach an agreement with Tehran, and the president had previously canceled operations that appeared imminent. Trump answered “no” when asked Monday whether he was considering striking Iran after the election.

The U.S. president has broad powers to manage military operations and foreign policy, making it difficult for lawmakers to halt any fighting once it begins, although Democrats have pledged to oppose any new military campaign.