US Warns Gulf States to Brace for Short, Intense Iran Campaign After Midterms, WSJ Reports

The United States has privately told several Gulf countries to prepare for a brief but intense military campaign against Iran after the US midterm elections on 3 November, The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing people briefed on the conversations. The message was sent through diplomatic and military channels, and marks a sharp step-up in Washington's posture toward Tehran just days before Americans vote.
According to the report, US forces in the Middle East are replenishing ammunition stocks, with bombers and fighter jets being readied for potential strikes, while an additional Patriot missile system has been moved from Texas to strengthen Israel's defences. An aircraft carrier and a Marine expeditionary unit are also expected to join the warships already in the region. Israel is said to have drawn up plans and identified targets for a possible new attack of its own.
President Donald Trump has not made a final decision, the Journal reported, but is leaning toward a major strike targeting Iranian infrastructure and nuclear sites, while still leaving room for a deal. Trump has said the US will not strike before the midterms, and told a campaign rally last week that America could mount another limited version of its spring bombing campaign, known as Epic Fury, or Iran could agree to terms. The White House declined to comment on sensitive military plans, saying only that the president is keeping all options open and will ensure Iran never possesses a nuclear weapon.
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