Democratic wins put US policy on Iran, Gaza and Ukraine under scrutiny
Democrats’ capture of both chambers of Congress opens a path to challenges over President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, although his veto power could limit their reach.
By Hassan Okoye ·
Democrats’ victories in this week’s US midterm elections have raised expectations of congressional challenges to President Donald Trump’s approach to conflicts in Iran, Gaza and Ukraine. The party will control both chambers when the new Congress convenes in January. European leaders cautiously welcomed the results on Wednesday, expressing hopes for stronger transatlantic relations and renewed American backing for Ukraine.
Democrats secured 54 seats in the 100-member Senate, against 44 for Republicans, with two races still undeclared. In the House of Representatives, they won 242 seats, exceeding the 218 needed for control, while Republicans had won 151. The results included Democratic victories in traditionally conservative states. Among the historic wins, Michigan’s Abdul El-Sayed became the first Muslim elected to the Senate.
The US-Israel war against Iran was a major issue for voters. The conflict that began in February has cost US taxpayers an estimated $47bn, while the closure of the Strait of Hormuz sent fuel prices sharply higher. Trump acknowledged on Wednesday that the war had contributed substantially to Republican losses but defended his decision. His position contrasts with his campaign promises to reduce living costs and end American involvement in foreign wars.
Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer said Congress could use its control over spending to end the war. That approach faces obstacles, however. James Boys, a research fellow at University College London’s Centre on US Politics, told Al Jazeera that restricting funding while American troops remain deployed could be viewed as putting their lives at risk. Analysts also questioned whether the War Powers Resolution could constrain Trump. The president has threatened to veto Democratic policies, and the party lacks the two-thirds majorities in both chambers required to override him.
On Gaza, the incoming Democratic lawmakers include progressives who have criticised Israel’s war, attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank, and US military and financial assistance to Israel. Their positions differ from the party’s longstanding support for Israel, including continued military backing under former President Joe Biden. El-Sayed has pledged to push for an end to American aid to Israel.
Trump, meanwhile, said during an election-day Fox News appearance that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had proposed ending the country’s $4bn in annual US aid. Trump said payments would stop by the end of the year, while adding that Washington would help Israel if needed. Netanyahu’s office did not comment on the announcement.
Ukraine is also looking to the next Congress after a deterioration in relations with Washington. Trump has delayed weapons transfers, called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to resign and blamed strikes on Russian oil facilities for rising diesel prices. In October, Washington waived sanctions on Russia and began purchasing Russian oil, alarming European leaders and prompting criticism from Ukraine.
Democrats have largely supported assistance to Ukraine, giving Kyiv reason to anticipate a change in congressional priorities. Speaking to German broadcaster ZDF, Zelenskyy pointed to Democratic commitments to aid Ukraine and rebuild ties between the United States and Europe. He expressed hope that the new balance of power would bring greater support when lawmakers take office in January.
