Iran hardliners demand tougher terms from Trump as war stalemate continues

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 07, 2026

Photo Courtesy: AP

Hardline political figures in Iran are calling for tougher conditions in negotiations with the United States, arguing that President Donald Trump has been weakened by his party’s losses in the US midterm elections.

Iranian conservatives have portrayed the Republican Party’s defeat as evidence that the ongoing war has taken a political toll on Washington, giving Tehran greater leverage in discussions over ending the conflict.

Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reinforced that position in a message released Wednesday, warning against any sign of submission to the United States. His remarks were widely interpreted by hardliners as a warning against making concessions during negotiations.

Some conservative media outlets have also urged Iran’s leadership not to give Washington an easy exit from the conflict. Hardline publication Raja News argued that the United States should face consequences for its military actions before any agreement is reached.

The conflict, now eight months old, remains largely at a stalemate, with limited military activity and little progress toward a diplomatic settlement.

Iranian negotiators have traveled between Tehran and Doha as Qatar continues efforts to mediate between the two sides. Discussions reportedly involve ending the war and eventually addressing Iran’s nuclear program.

Analysts say the US election results could further harden Tehran’s negotiating position, as Iranian leaders view the outcome as a sign that the war has created domestic political difficulties for Trump.

However, the prospect of renewed military confrontation remains a concern. While a regional official told CNN that the risk of escalation had eased following the Republican losses, the possibility of further conflict has not been ruled out.

Diplomatic efforts have continued across the region. Qatar said US and Iranian officials remain engaged in discussions, while Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has held calls with counterparts from several Middle Eastern countries.

Iran has also outlined conditions for reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, including an end to hostilities, compensation, the withdrawal of US forces and the lifting of sanctions.

The waterway is a critical route for global oil shipments, making its continued disruption a major concern for energy markets and countries dependent on Middle Eastern supplies.

Despite growing calls from hardliners for a tougher stance, analysts say Iran’s leadership is still seeking an agreement that would end the war while preserving its regional influence and strategic leverage.