US and Israel Develop Attack Plans Against Iran Post-Midterm Elections

The United States and Israel have reportedly developed plans for potential strikes against Iran, with operations possibly commencing after the US midterm elections in November. According to sources briefed on the discussions, cited by The New York Times, these plans involve a three-day operation targeting Iran's energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone stockpiles. The timing is also influenced by the extended darkness hours during November, which could provide cover for such operations.

This development follows a reported secret meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Secretary to discuss new offensive actions. A White House official, speaking anonymously to The New York Times, declined to comment on specific military plans but reiterated President Trump's commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, leaving all options on the table.

Some officials believe that renewed strikes could push Iran's economy towards collapse, potentially forcing diplomatic concessions. Concurrently, The Wall Street Journal reported that Iran's floating oil reserves have been depleted, suggesting that a naval blockade is beginning to have a greater impact due to Tehran's inability to continue selling oil to China. Analysts indicate that these reserves, which provided a crucial economic safety net, were exhausted by mid-October due to the US blockade preventing resupply.

Iranian sources have indicated that they would retaliate by targeting data centers and underwater cables, rather than solely focusing on ships and energy infrastructure. The US military is expected to complete its regional assessments in early November, involving multiple aircraft carriers, Marines, fighter jets, and special forces. The transition to winter time in Iran, extending daylight hours, is also cited as a factor in the preferred timing for potential operations.

President Trump commented to reporters that the US is not negotiating with Iran and that "something is going to be happening about it very soon," adding that "most people think it's going to be after the midterms."

Separately, the US military is reportedly reducing its presence at Middle Eastern bases, and the State Department is scaling back diplomatic staff in the region, citing ongoing threats, including those from Iran, as President Trump considers further military action. US Central Command stated that forces are routinely repositioned to enhance readiness and did not provide details on troop movements for operational security reasons. No final decisions on new action in Iran have been made.