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US Could Launch Major Strike on Iran Within 96 Hours if Trump Orders, CNN Says; Post-Midterm Timing Seen as Most Likely
Summary
- The US military said it has completed preparations for a large-scale military operation within 96 hours, targeting Iranian energy facilities, military bases and nuclear sites.
- The US is weighing the possibility of resuming military operations later this year after the midterm elections, along with potential retaliation by Iran and the Houthis and possible staff reductions at diplomatic missions in the Middle East.
- As tensions persist in the Strait of Hormuz, the US military's maritime blockade remains in place and international oil prices are staying elevated, though the White House and Pentagon said the timing and likelihood of any actual strike remain uncertain.
Forecast Trend Report by Period
The US military has completed preparations for a large-scale operation against Iran that could begin within 96 hours if President Donald Trump gives the order, CNN reported.
CNN, citing two US government officials on October 26, said enough forces are already in place in the Middle East to carry out additional strikes. If Trump authorizes the operation, it could begin within 96 hours.
The military action under review would be broader than earlier limited strikes. US Central Command and the Pentagon are considering a wide target list that includes Iranian energy facilities, military bases and nuclear sites. One official described it as a large-scale operation.
A window after the US midterm elections in November is being discussed as the most likely timing for an attack. Trump has not made a final decision, but some current and former US officials think the chances are high that military operations could resume before year-end. Still, he could reverse course at the final stage.
Israel is also pursuing additional strikes on Iran, the report said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested a joint attack before the midterm elections, but the US asked that any operation be delayed until preparations were complete.
US intelligence agencies assess that Iran and Yemen's Houthi rebels could retaliate immediately against US troops and diplomatic facilities in the Middle East if they are attacked by the US or Israel. In response, Washington is moving to reduce staffing at diplomatic missions across the region, including in Saudi Arabia.
Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are also continuing. The US military is maintaining a maritime blockade of Iranian ports, and General Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, visited the Strait of Hormuz on October 25 to review operations. International oil prices have remained elevated on concerns over possible Iranian retaliation, even as tanker traffic has increased.
The White House declined to comment on the report. The Pentagon said military operational planning is a routine mission, leaving uncertainty over whether an actual strike will take place and when.
Suehyeon Lee
shlee@bloomingbit.ioI'm reporter Suehyeon Lee, your Web3 Moderator.