Donald Trump has predicted that the war with Iran will end "immediately" after the upcoming US midterm elections, telling reporters he believes Iran "can't hold out any longer." The remarks came as he travelled to Dallas for the Republican Midterm Convention, where he is set to deliver keynote addresses on both nights amid signs of weakening support within his own party ahead of the vote.

The convention's speaker list has drawn attention for who is absent: Senate Majority Leader John Thune was not given a speaking slot, reportedly reflecting Trump's frustration with him over stalled legislative priorities, while vulnerable Republican candidates including Susan Collins, Ashley Hinson and John E Sununu are also steering clear of the main stage. Analysts widely expect Democrats to retake the House, with Senate control hinging on close races in Maine, Ohio, Michigan and Alaska. Separately, Trump's flight to Dallas was delayed after his Qatari-gifted Air Force One deployed its emergency evacuation slide, though he insisted the aircraft was safe to fly. The Iran conflict has now lasted more than six months and killed 18 US service members, with commanders reportedly warning it could be straining US defences elsewhere.