(NewsNation) — Former national security adviser John Bolton told NewsNation on Thursday he doesn’t believe “there is a lasting diplomatic solution” for U.S. relations with Iran.

“I think in the current circumstances what Trump is looking for is some kind of agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz to relieve pressure on international oil prices,” Bolton said. “I don’t think he’s looking at this in grand strategy terms with respect to the Middle East.”

Bolton said he believes Trump is primarily focused on the political implications of the conflict ahead of crucial midterm general elections in November. He explained that reopening the Strait would reduce gasoline prices in the U.S. as Americans continue to struggle with affordability.

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Domestic gas prices have increased roughly 40% since the conflict began in February, or about $1.20, and are the highest for this time of year since 2022.

Bolton’s comments come amid a fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, with talks between the countries having continued for weeks as mediators seek a more enduring truce in the war.

Bolton said he believes Iran thinks it has leverage over the U.S. in negotiations, sensing Trump’s eagerness to reach an agreement.

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Iranian attacks on both Bahrain and Kuwait this week, and U.S. strikes against military sites on an Iranian island, have tested the ceasefire and entangled recent negotiations. Israel’s broadening war with Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon has further complicated talks.

On Wednesday, a drone struck Kuwait International Airport, creating a massive explosion. Kuwaiti officials say one person was killed and over 60 were injured in those strikes, which included over two dozen drones and missiles combined.

“This is a civilian international airport; it’s a miracle that only one person died,” Bolton said. “That’s a direct terrorist attack by the Iranian regime.”

NewsNation’s Justin Walker, Robert Sherman and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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