US and Iran Reportedly Prepare Possible Strikes After Midterms as Officials Say a Peaceful End Is Still Sought

Summary

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump wants to end the war with Iran 'peacefully', even as reports suggest both sides are gearing up for additional military strikes after the U.S. midterm elections. Vice President JD Vance said 'good conversations' with Iran continue and that a US-Iran deal remains possible, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reported to be pushing Trump for renewed strikes. Gulf nations have warned against further escalation. The earlier reporting on the war had already noted Trump's statements that the war would be wrapped up soon and his reiterated condition on nuclear weapons.

Timeline

1. CNBC

   2 Nov 2026, 02:39 UTCSource ↗

   CNBC reports that Rubio said Trump wants to end the Iran war 'peacefully', even as reports suggest both sides are gearing up for additional military strikes after the U.S. midterm elections.

2. Hindustan Times

   3 Nov 2026, 00:39 UTCSource ↗

   Hindustan Times reports that JD Vance highlighted 'good conversations' with Iran and said a US-Iran deal remains possible, as Netanyahu pushes Trump for renewed strikes and Gulf nations warn against further escalation.