The United States and Israel have developed approaches to a potential resumption of military strikes against Iran following the US midterm elections, and are preparing for a swift but intense campaign, according to a new report by The New York Times.
The plans could hit Iran’s nuclear sites, its drone and missile stockpile and energy infrastructure, the paper reported Wednesday, quoting US officials and other people involved in the planning. The US has also increased military exercises, including flights over Iraq to rehearse strike operations.
But it remains unclear if US President Donald Trump will authorise further strikes.
Earlier this month, Trump said Washington would not attack Iran before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, citing what he called “positive talks” with Tehran.
“We are talking to the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he said on Truth Social on Oct. 8, “but we will not do anything until after the election!”
‘We do not comment on military plans that may or may not exist,’ a White House official told Anadolu Agency and also said that Trump was leaving all options on the table to ensure Iran does not obtain nuclear weapons.
The reported preparations come as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict remain at a standstill, with differences over Iran’s nuclear programme and navigation of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
