U.S. and Israeli militaries have developed specific plans for renewed strikes against Iran following the American midterm elections, according to U.S. officials. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss new operations targeting Iran's energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile arsenal. U.S. and Israeli forces have stepped up joint exercises, flying planes over Iraq to practice strike maneuvers. Despite intensive planning, officials acknowledge renewed hostilities may not be more successful than the war's first phase between February and April, which drove up global energy prices and strained Pentagon interceptor stocks.
Analysts remain skeptical that additional attacks would force diplomatic concessions from Iran, especially given the regime's history of weathering economic pressure. Iranian officials have vowed to expand retaliation beyond commercial ships to data centers and underwater internet cables if strikes occur. While U.S. planners envision an intensive three-day campaign capable of inflicting economic damage, President Trump has repeatedly vetoed plans for major combat operations this year.
Israel's October 27 election could further complicate operations, potentially turning Mr. Netanyahu into a caretaker prime minister if he loses. Some analysts suggest the strike prospect could pressure rivals into joining a unity government, extending Mr. Netanyahu's hold on power amid regional instability.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing