US president Donald Trump has repeatedly insisted in recent weeks that the United States has effectively won the Iran war despite ongoing unrest. (EPA Images pic)

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Thursday ruled out attacking Iran before the US midterm elections on Nov 3, saying Washington was holding "productive discussions" with Tehran.

Trump's post on his Truth Social platform followed a surge in oil prices on Thursday driven by media reports suggesting potential new US strikes prior to those elections.

"I want to make it clear to everybody that, while Iran is in very bad condition, both Economically and Militarily, and while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect...we will not be attacking Iran at any time prior to the Midterm Elections," he wrote.