U.S. Advises Gulf Nations to Ready for Potential Short-Lived Conflict with Iran After Midterms

U.S. diplomats and military officers have told several Gulf Arab countries to get ready for a "short, intense military campaign" against Iran following the November 3 midterm elections, according to a report citing officials briefed on the discussions. The warning comes amid indications that the United States and Israel are planning a new round of heavy combat operations aimed at pressuring Tehran toward negotiations.

The Pentagon is relocating a Patriot missile-defence system from Texas to the Middle East, repositioning troops from vulnerable bases, restocking munitions and preparing bombers and fighter jets for possible strikes. An additional aircraft carrier strike group and a Marine expeditionary unit are slated to join roughly 20 U.S. warships already deployed in the region.

President Donald Trump has not announced a final decision but is reportedly leaning toward a large post-election attack that could target Iranian infrastructure and nuclear facilities. The White House declined to comment on the specifics of any military plans.

"President Trump keeps all options on the table to ensure that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon," a White House spokesperson said.

During a campaign rally in Lubbock, Texas, Trump told the audience that Iran could be seen "in a couple of weeks" and claimed that past operations had "obliterated Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity" and would end "very soon."

The United States and Israel previously launched a conflict against Iran on February 28, prompting missile and drone attacks from Tehran and a temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. A memorandum of understanding signed in June to facilitate a final peace deal collapsed over disagreements, including navigation rights in the strait.