White House says Trump keeps full range of choices on Iran as election timing weighs
The White House said President Trump can use any option available regarding Iran, as reports say he is considering whether to restart large-scale fighting before or after elections in the U.S. and Israel. Washington and Tehran remain deadlocked more than seven months into the war, with U.S. economic pressure and a naval blockade squeezing Iranian oil exports while Iran disrupts shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Pentagon has been preparing possible strikes on Iranian energy, infrastructure and nuclear sites, and additional U.S. troops are expected in the Middle East by late November.
The White House says the president retains every option regarding Iran. Officials describe Washington as holding a strong position, citing maritime control at the Strait of Hormuz and severe strain on Iran’s economy. More than seven months into the conflict, the two sides remain deadlocked.
Reports indicate the Pentagon has been told to finish planning for a renewed campaign. Possible targets include energy, infrastructure and nuclear sites. The president is said to be weighing timing around U.S. elections on Nov. 3 and Israeli elections on Oct. 27. Additional troops, carriers and a Marine expeditionary unit are expected by late November.
A renewed campaign or pre-election strikes could affect U.S. voters through gasoline prices and war concerns, while military personnel and families may face new deployments. Regional shipping disruptions may raise costs for consumers and businesses. Israeli voters could see security dominate their election. Escalation may also deepen uncertainty for Iranians and neighboring states.