Reports: Washington and Jerusalem Prepare New Strikes on Iran After U.S. Midterms
U.S. and Israeli officials have reportedly drafted a short, intense campaign against Iranian energy, nuclear, and missile and drone targets, according to a New York Times account. Joint military preparations have included rehearsal flights over Iraq, though President Trump has not approved action. Iranian officials expect another attack and warn of retaliation against U.S. political targets and infrastructure of states involved.
The reported blueprint would follow the U.S. midterms and concentrate on Iran’s power infrastructure, atomic sites, and rocket and drone stockpiles. American and Israeli forces have rehearsed strike sorties over Iraq, the account says, though President Trump has not authorized action.
In a separate report, Washington is described as scaling back personnel at bases in Jordan, Qatar, and Kuwait while trimming diplomatic staffing across the Middle East. Trump said no talks with Tehran were taking place and hinted at a near-term development, which many expect after the election. Iranian officials anticipate another attack and have warned of retaliation.
If preparations lead to renewed strikes, civilians in Iran and neighboring states could face heightened security risks, disruption, and fear of escalation. Energy markets may react to threats against Iranian infrastructure, potentially affecting consumers through price volatility. Diplomatic and military personnel, along with communities hosting U.S. bases in Jordan, Qatar, and Kuwait, may see changed security arrangements. Iranian warnings about retaliation could increase anxiety among diaspora and regional populations, though outcomes remain uncertain.