The Middle East is facing an extremely sensitive period, with tensions escalating between the United States and Iran amid reports and assessments suggesting that war could resume. The timing of any potential conflict remains unknown, although some believe it could take place after the US midterm elections to avoid affecting energy prices, which directly influence American voter sentiment.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that military preparations in the Middle East are at an advanced stage, with forces on high alert. US troops are ready to act on any orders from President Donald Trump, and the military buildup is considered sufficient to carry out broader operations.
In this context, CNN quoted two US officials as saying that American forces in the Middle East are on high alert and prepared to launch new military operations against Iran, potentially on a large scale, “within 96 hours” of receiving an order from Trump.
The sources said that the forces currently deployed in the region are “sufficient” to carry out such potential attacks. They added that the scope of new US military operations could extend beyond limited strikes, commonly referred to as “mowing the grass,” a strategy involving periodic strikes to maintain the status quo.
These operations previously targeted Iranian radar systems, missile launchers, and other assets that could be quickly rebuilt. This approach has been followed since Trump halted large-scale combat operations earlier this year.
Other current and former US officials familiar with internal military planning discussions have supported this assessment, with some believing that Trump's decision to order military action is merely “a matter of time.”
They believe such an order could come at any point before the end of the year, although it is considered more likely after the US midterm elections.
Iranian forces have now become more familiar with US military tactics, making it increasingly difficult for the American military to effectively destroy all potential targets.
Nevertheless, commanders at US Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Pentagon are preparing an extensive list of targets, including Iran's energy infrastructure, military sites, and nuclear facilities.
Officials indicate that President Trump has not yet made a final decision on the steps he will take following the midterm elections, although he appears to be leaning toward ordering large-scale military action.
However, officials caution that Trump has previously shown an inclination to pursue certain courses of action, only to reverse his position at the last minute.
According to two other sources familiar with the matter, recent US intelligence assessments suggest that Iran and the Houthi movement are taking the possibility of new attacks by the United States, and potentially Israel, very seriously.
Sources familiar with these intelligence assessments said that, should the United States and Israel launch new military operations against Iran, Tehran and the Houthis would likely respond immediately by targeting US personnel and facilities in the region, and potentially elsewhere beyond it.
