The United States and Israel have reportedly developed plans for renewed military strikes against Iran following the US midterm elections scheduled for November 3, according to a report by The New York Times published on October 21.
Citing US officials and other individuals briefed on the matter, the newspaper reported that Washington and Tel Aviv have intensified military preparations for what officials described as a “short but intensive operation.” The preparations reportedly include expanded military exercises and simulated strike manoeuvres, including flights over neighbouring Iraq to rehearse potential operations against Iranian targets.
According to the report, possible targets could include Iran’s energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and stockpiles of missiles and drones. The proposed military campaign would aim to damage Iran’s strategic capabilities and increase pressure on its leadership to make diplomatic concessions.
Officials cited in the report reportedly believe that another major wave of attacks could inflict significant damage on Iran’s economy by targeting critical infrastructure and key strategic assets. They suggest that the economic consequences could place additional pressure on the Iranian government to reconsider its position in negotiations with Washington.
However, the timing and likelihood of any renewed military action remain uncertain. The report indicates that US President Donald Trump could potentially authorise strikes as early as October, although such a move is considered less likely than action following the November 3 midterm elections.
Trump could also ultimately decide against launching a new military operation, leaving the situation dependent on political calculations, diplomatic developments, and security assessments in the coming weeks.
The reported preparations come amid continuing tensions between Washington, Tel Aviv, and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme, missile capabilities, and regional influence. Any renewed military confrontation could further destabilise the Middle East, threaten regional security, and disrupt global energy markets.
For now, the reported plans indicate that military options remain under consideration, but no final decision to launch another round of strikes has been confirmed in the report.
