Iran officials pessimistic about deal with US before midterms
- Iranian officials have privately voiced pessimism about reaching an agreement to end hostilities with Washington and reopen the Strait of Hormuz before the US midterm elections in November, according to people familiar with the matter.
- Iran and the US made limited progress during talks in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly last week. The Islamic Republic believes there is a high chance the conflict will escalate after the Nov. 3 vote, according to people briefed by Iranian officials