Hormuz mine claims, Houthi attacks raise fears of renewed strikes as the U.S. reportedly weighs a fresh military campaign after midterm elections.

“Tehran remains unlikely to let Washington end the conflict quickly and, fearing a potential attack from the U.S., could itself strike first,” writes Hamidreza Azizi.

Trump's statement comes as a report from The Hill revealed that the costs of the Iran conflict has ballooned to $47 billion.

U.S. officials have warned Middle East allies to prepare for potential renewed military action against Iran after the U.S. midterm elections.

True, Trump has held off in recent weeks from restarting a full-fledged war on Iran, perhaps mindful that the conflict and the resulting spike in gas and diesel prices are deeply unpopular. But, as a case study, just listen to the administration’s remarks about destabilizing Cuba.

A document reviewed by The Post estimates that the war has already cost $47 billion, as the U.S. and the region prepare for renewed hostilities.

The U.S. military is denying that Iran captured an American drone near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran says three tankers struck mines and caught fire while attempting to exit the strait.

Europe’s economy persevered with moderate growth in the third quarter despite higher oil prices from the US-Iran war, as gross domestic product increased by 0.4% over the quarter before.

Diplomats in the region say Saudi Arabia offered Iran a carrot and a stick. If it makes concessions that enable a deal with America, the kingdom and its neighbours are willing to discuss a broader regional-security pact. If Iran refuses, and resumes attacks on Gulf states, the Mecca-pact countries will be ready to respond.