The New York Times reports that the United States is preparing an option for a short operation against Iran. Donald Trump has publicly said he will not strike before the Nov. 3 midterm elections.
The New York Times, citing U.S. officials, reported that the Pentagon has drawn up a roughly three-day option focused on Iran's missile and drone forces. Energy facilities and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command centers are also under consideration. Officials discussed the plan at Camp David last Friday.
Trump said in a Truth Social post that the United States would not attack Iran before the Nov. 3 midterm elections and described talks with Tehran as productive. The Associated Press separately reported his public pledge. The Times said Trump had rejected five proposals for major operations against Iran or the Houthis in recent months. The planning therefore describes a contingency, not an order to strike.
U.S. forces are continuing a buildup in the region. Three aircraft carriers are expected there by late October, with more than 20,000 sailors and Marines and hundreds of aircraft, according to the Times. The newspaper said the concentration would be temporary. One carrier is expected to replace another before USS Washington returns to Japan.
The report describes concerns about Iran's improved military tactics and pressure on interceptor stocks. U.S. officials told the newspaper that Tehran had become more capable of locating and striking American bases, partly with commercial satellite imagery. U.S. forces and regional partners now need more interceptors to counter missile salvos. Officials fear a renewed operation could prompt a wider Iranian response and further strain regional defenses.
The Times reported that Iran has attacked at least 13 ships since September, while some intelligence sources put the number closer to 20. The attacks have not prompted a major U.S. response. Washington continues to intercept drones and cruise missiles but has avoided renewed large-scale strikes inside Iran. The report says shipping companies are concerned about the Strait of Hormuz and that indirect nuclear talks remain stalled over the order of issues.
The political calendar may also affect any decision. Israel's parliamentary election is scheduled for Oct. 27, followed by the U.S. midterms on Nov. 3. Axios reported that Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir was warned an attack could resume within three weeks. The Times said some administration officials favor a short operation, but it remains unclear whether Trump would approve one after the elections. The reported military preparations do not establish that an attack has been ordered.