Israeli Military Chief Warns Iran Conflict Could Delay Elections

Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has warned senior American officials that a renewed conflict with Iran could lead to the postponement of elections in Israel. Zamir was informed during the conversation about the US military's preparations for the possibility of renewed, widespread fighting against Iran within the next three weeks. Sources indicate a concern that Iran might retaliate to an attack by launching missiles toward Israel. The IDF spokesperson declined to comment on the conversation.

Concurrently, the Pentagon has instructed US Central Command to finalize preparations for a potential resumption of hostilities with Iran, though no specific timeline for an attack has been set. According to senior US officials, President Trump is still considering the option, with a decision possibly forthcoming within seven to ten days. However, Trump stated on the same day that the US does not intend to initiate a military strike against Iran in the near future, tweeting, "We are having productive conversations with Iran. I want to make it clear to everyone, we will not attack Iran before the US midterm elections on November 3."

Previously, The Atlantic reported that the White House had asked the Pentagon to develop operational plans for a potential strike on Iran in the coming weeks. Two senior administration officials confirmed to the magazine that these preparations were partly motivated by the approaching elections. The plans are being formulated by CENTCOM, but no final decision has been made, and the scope and potential targets are still under review. One possibility being considered is a limited strike that would allow Trump to claim a military achievement against Iran before voters go to the polls. The White House hopes such a show of force could help shift public opinion regarding the war, which has impacted support for the President and Republicans, partly due to a sharp rise in fuel prices.