IRAN PROLONGS TALKS IN STALEMATE TO INFLUENCE US MIDTERMS

What happened: Senior Iranian officials say Tehran has deliberately prolonged talks with the US to weaken Donald Trump politically ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, while preparing for renewed attacks. Key numbers: War began in February and is eight months old. Annual inflation hit 73.6% in September. The rial fell nearly 35% against the dollar since July. Why it matters: Officials see little chance of a breakthrough before the elections, and analysts say deepened distrust leaves no path back to the pre-war status quo. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

Senior Iranian officials say Tehran has deliberately prolonged talks with the US to weaken Donald Trump politically ahead of the November 3 midterm elections, while preparing for renewed attacks.

Officials see little chance of a breakthrough before the elections, and analysts say deepened distrust leaves no path back to the pre-war status quo.