The United States has witnessed a historic shift in its political landscape as the Democratic Party secured control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate in the recent midterm elections. The outcome has drawn intense scrutiny from international leaders, who are assessing how the new congressional majority might reshape U.S. foreign policy on issues ranging from the Iran conflict to the Russia‑Ukraine war and global trade.
President Donald Trump acknowledged that the U.S. stance on the Israel‑Iran situation likely contributed to his party’s losses, noting that voters were “probably not ready for the short‑term consequence of the price of gasoline.”
In Tehran, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who also serves as the chief negotiator with the United States, welcomed the results. He wrote on X, “Americans said NO TO WAR, and we endorse this message.” Ghalibaf warned that a U.S. government that disregards public will could face severe repercussions.
Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, however, dismissed the impact of the U.S. electoral shift on Tehran’s stance. He stated that partisan changes in Washington would not alter the U.S.’s “hostility” toward Iran, cautioning that any belief in a change of policy through political realignment is “gravely mistaken.”
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a former ally of Trump, did not issue a statement following the U.S. results. Opposition figures Yair Golan and Yair Lapid, both part of a coalition seeking to replace Netanyahu, interpreted the outcome as a sign of growing disapproval of Netanyahu’s leadership. Golan warned that Netanyahu’s continued rule could lead Israel toward “international sanctions, global isolation, and a confrontation with the United States.” Lapid added that the U.S. vote effectively ruled out a unity government led by Netanyahu.
European leaders expressed cautious optimism. Vice President Christel Schaldemose of the European Parliament noted that the new U.S. majority could strengthen support for Ukraine, advance the green transition, and improve global relations. She emphasized that the EU must maintain its independent course, stating, “That’s not up for debate.”
Health Minister James Frith of the United Kingdom reaffirmed the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and steady relationship with the United States amid the changing political dynamics.
Source: Al Jazeera
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