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Democratic Victory in U.S. Midterms Sparks Global Reactions

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Democratic Victory in U.S. Midterms Sparks Global Reactions
Photo: Supporters cheer as Democratic gubernatorial candidate Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford speaks at an election night event, in Las Vegas, November 4 [John Locher/AP Photo]

Democrats won control of both chambers of the U.S. Congress in the midterm elections, a decisive blow to President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. The outcome is closely monitored by foreign leaders who are assessing its impact on U.S. foreign policy, including the Iran conflict, the Russia‑Ukraine war, and trade relations.

Iran

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the chief negotiator in talks with the U.S., said the results signaled a rejection of conflict. “Americans said NO TO WAR, and we endorse this message,” he posted on X. He warned that if the U.S. government goes against public will, it will face a “nightmare.” Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that partisan changes in Washington would not alter the U.S.’s hostility toward Tehran, calling those who hope for a shift through party changes “gravely mistaken.”

Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not comment immediately. Opposition figures Yair Golan and Yair Lapid noted that the U.S. vote highlighted Netanyahu’s unpopularity among both U.S. Democrats and Republicans. Golan warned that Netanyahu’s continued rule could lead Israel toward international sanctions and isolation, while Lapid said the vote effectively ruled out a unity government led by Netanyahu.

European Union

European Parliament Vice President Christel Schaldemose expressed cautious optimism, noting potential benefits for Ukraine support, the green transition, and global relations, but emphasized the EU must remain independent.

United Kingdom

Health Minister James Frith said the U.K. would maintain strong ties with Washington despite the domestic political shift, describing the relationship as “unwavering and unchanging.”

France

Finance Minister Roland Lescure said France would observe whether President Trump adjusts his approach, particularly regarding gasoline prices and international involvement.

Spain

Left‑wing Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the Democratic landslide as evidence of the global far‑right’s unraveling, noting similar outcomes in Brazil and anticipating similar shifts in Spain.

Greece

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said U.S.–Greek relations would remain strong and unaffected by the election.

Russia

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov urged patience until final results were clear, noting that U.S. Democratic leaders have a sharply negative stance toward Moscow. He said Russia’s policy on Ukraine and broader foreign affairs would not depend on U.S. political fluctuations.

Kremlin

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow hoped the results would not affect Trump’s peacemaking efforts.

China

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated China would continue its constructive strategic relationship with the U.S., treating the elections as a domestic matter and emphasizing cooperation based on respect and equality.

Japan

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the Japan‑U.S. alliance remains the cornerstone of Japan’s foreign and security policy, essential amid growing international uncertainty.

South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa called the election a “new era in world relations,” noting that the Democrats’ control of the Senate and House reflects the American people’s voice.

Frequently asked questions

Which U.S. political parties won the midterm elections?

Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress.

How did Iranian officials react to the U.S. midterm results?

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the results signaled a rejection of conflict and endorsed the message that Americans said NO TO WAR. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said partisan changes would not alter the U.S.’s hostility toward Tehran.

What did Israeli opposition figures say about Netanyahu after the U.S. midterm results?

Yair Golan warned that Netanyahu’s continued rule could lead Israel toward sanctions and isolation, while Yair Lapid said the vote effectively ruled out a unity government led by Netanyahu.

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