Trump Hints at Possible Iran Attack After Midterm Elections

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested a potential attack on Iran could occur after the upcoming midterm elections, stating, "The U.S. is not negotiating with Iran." He told reporters outside Air Force One, "Something will happen with that quite soon. It seems most people think it will happen after the election, we'll see what happens." Trump's remarks followed a New York Times report indicating that the U.S. military and the IDF had developed plans for renewed strikes against Iran post-election. Potential targets reportedly include energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone depots.

Some analysts believe a new wave of extensive attacks could push Iran's economy toward collapse, forcing diplomatic concessions. According to the Times, citing Iranian sources, Iran's response to an attack would involve targeting data centers and undersea cables, in addition to striking ships and energy infrastructure in the region. The U.S. military is expected to complete its regional assessments in early November, deploying three aircraft carriers, thousands of Marines, fighter jets, and special forces.

An additional reason for delaying potential strikes is the upcoming shift to winter time in Iran, which would extend nighttime hours and provide a larger window for operations. The article also noted reports of explosions in the port city of Sirik, Iran, with unofficial reports suggesting the U.S. military struck a missile launcher threatening maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Axios reported, citing Israeli and American officials, that dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets conducted an operational sortie near Iran's border on Monday. This flight occurred on the same day U.S. Defense Secretary met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, though the report stated there was no connection.

Officials told Axios the sortie was not unusual and aimed to deter Iran. According to sources, Israel informed the U.S. in advance, describing the operation as a drill to demonstrate strength and deter Iran from attacking Israel ahead of the elections. However, American sources were under the impression that Israel hoped the Iranians would fire on the aircraft, thereby providing justification for initiating attacks against Iran. NBC News reported that the U.S. military has "quietly" reduced troop presence at bases in Jordan, Qatar, and Kuwait, and the State Department has ordered further staff reductions at several diplomatic missions in the region. Two U.S. officials and two additional sources told NBC that these troop reductions are similar to measures taken before the start of the war with Iran in February.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Pakistan and Qatar are urgently working to prevent a resumption of hostilities between Iran and the U.S. Diplomatic efforts reportedly include proposals such as releasing some frozen Iranian funds abroad with interest in exchange for nuclear concessions. The Wall Street Journal also reported that the possibility of resuming International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspector visits to Iran was discussed, with Iranian diplomats showing openness, but Iranian regime elements blocking the move.