CNN reported that a Raja News column urged Iran to pressure Washington and raise energy prices instead of accepting a quick U.S. exit from the war, as Qatar continued mediation over Iran’s nuclear proposal.
The column came after Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in the Nov. 3 midterm elections. CNN reported that hard-liners saw the Republican defeat as an opening to seek a higher price for ending the conflict, though the election result alone does not show that Iran changed its negotiating position. Vice President JD Vance wrote on X, “The reason we lost is the war.” The Associated Press reported that voters also cited high prices and government corruption.
In a Nov. 4 message on his official website, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned that concessions to the United States could jeopardize Iran’s gains. He said Iranian resistance had helped bring a different international order into view and invoked the 1953 coup in describing the history of U.S.-Iran hostility. The message made no reference to negotiations. CNN reported that some hard-liners interpreted it as a warning to officials involved in talks.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nov. 3 that Doha remained in contact with Iranian officials as its mediation effort continued. Reuters cited a senior Iranian official on Nov. 5 who said Tehran had sent its nuclear proposal to Washington through Qatar. The official said Iran would discuss the offer only after the United States met seven conditions. Reuters said Washington was examining the document.
Sanctions relief, the release of frozen Iranian assets and war reparations were among the conditions, Reuters reported. The terms also link progress on nuclear talks and reopening the Strait of Hormuz to U.S. action. CNN reported major damage to Iran’s economy and infrastructure, while the Associated Press said limited U.S. strikes continued after the election.
