US Military Prepared for Major Iran Attack Within 96 Hours

The U.S. military is preparing for the possibility of a large-scale offensive against Iran, which could be launched within 96 hours of an order from President Donald Trump. Two U.S. officials told CNN that forces already deployed in the Middle East are ready to execute the operation, and that a broad list of targets has been developed by the Pentagon and U.S. Central Command. Unlike limited strikes aimed at quickly repairable military assets, the planned attack could be significantly more extensive, potentially targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, military facilities, and sites related to its nuclear program.

Some current and former U.S. officials familiar with internal discussions believe it is a matter of "when, not if" Trump will order further military action, with a decision possibly coming before the end of the year, likely after the U.S. midterm elections. However, the President has not yet made a final decision, and Washington recalls that Trump has previously considered military actions only to withdraw at the last minute. The White House declined to comment, while the Pentagon stated its role is to develop military options as directed by the President.

Concurrently, Israel has been working to advance further strikes against Iran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly asked Trump to approve a joint operation before the U.S. midterms, but the President did not give his approval. An Israeli security source told CNN that the U.S. administration requested Israel wait until preparations for a joint operation were complete, partly because a pre-election strike in Israel could disrupt its own electoral process. Israel has agreed to postpone an immediate strike, preparing instead for a joint operation, likely after the U.S. midterms, partly due to a need for U.S. missile defense support after its defensive munitions were depleted during the war.

Netanyahu recently stated he had instructed the military and intelligence agencies to work towards overthrowing the Iranian regime. However, U.S. intelligence assessments suggest Israel has not yet presented a clear strategic objective beyond continued pressure on the regime. This military buildup occurs amid intelligence warnings of a severe Iranian response to any U.S. or Israeli attack, potentially involving strikes on U.S. forces and facilities across the Middle East and possibly beyond.

An unclassified intelligence memo from October 23rd indicated Iran has significantly increased efforts to target American personnel, with planning for attacks in advanced stages. However, intelligence officials do not anticipate Iran or the Houthis initiating a preemptive strike against U.S. or Israeli forces at this time, viewing a military response to a first strike as the primary risk. In anticipation of escalation, the U.S. is expected to reduce its diplomatic presence in some Middle Eastern countries, with the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh already issuing an evacuation order. Non-essential U.S. military personnel scheduled to deploy to the region have also been informed they will not be sent.

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route, may also push Trump toward a decision. Despite U.S. efforts to secure shipping and assist vessel traffic, the threat of Iranian attacks continues to impact oil prices. U.S. Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper visited the Strait recently, observing operational conditions and meeting with troops involved in clearing Iranian mines. A senior U.S. official acknowledged the current situation is unsustainable, suggesting that without diplomatic progress, the pressure around the Strait could be a factor in Trump reconsidering a large-scale military operation.