Iranian officials have privately expressed pessimism about reaching a deal to end hostilities with Washington and reopen the Strait of Hormuz before U.S. midterm elections in November, according to people familiar with the matter. Iran and the U.S. made little progress during talks in New York on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly last week and the Islamic Republic believes there’s a high chance of the conflict escalating after the Nov. 3 vote, according to the people, some of whom were briefed by Iranian officials.
They asked not to be named discussing sensitive matters. Iran officials have consistently said they are willing to pursue diplomacy but do not trust the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump to abide by the terms of any agreement.
The White House has similar feelings of distrust toward Tehran and Trump has previously said he doubts any deal can be reached before the midterms.
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