By Basant El-Faramawy
Donald Trump's significant loss in the US midterm elections curtails his ability to dictate legislation and disrupt domestic politics, but his sweeping powers as commander-in-chief remain largely intact abroad. The president retains broad authority to deploy military force and shape foreign policy without congressional approval.
Iran tensions escalate
In the weeks before the vote, the administration ramped up military deployments and belligerent rhetoric toward Iran, including a limited bombing raid on an Iranian island in the Gulf. Senator Chris Murphy, after a classified briefing, condemned potential war plans as "insane" and warned of a "devastating escalation." Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, posted that Americans voted "NO TO WAR" and warned the US government would face a "Nightmare" if it betrayed that public will. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, maneuvering to form a new government, has reportedly pressed Trump to renew conflict with Iran, which could create conditions for a unity government in Israel.
Ukraine pressure may intensify
Trump has consistently pushed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to make territorial concessions to Russia. Before the elections, he lifted sanctions to purchase Russian diesel and may deepen sanctions relief to ease economic pressure on US consumers. The Kremlin expressed hope that election results would not affect what it called Trump's "peace-making efforts." Analysts suggest the president may redouble pressure on Kyiv to accept a deal that would amount to capitulation.
Throughout his presidency, Trump has relished using the powers of his office. Despite the domestic setback, he is unlikely to retreat quietly and may seek to demonstrate that while he can no longer shake America, he can still shake the world.
