US and Israel Prepare New Strikes Against Iran
President Donald Trump prepares a three-day military campaign against Iran as Israel warns that renewed escalation could postpone its upcoming general election.
The United States and Israel are preparing for a renewed military escalation against Iran following a volatile year of conflict. Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to develop plans for a short, intense three-day campaign targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, military sites, and drone and missile arsenals. While the U.S. is increasing its presence with three aircraft carriers in the Middle East, Trump stated on Truth Social that Washington would not attack Iran before the November 3 midterm elections.
This tension follows a major offensive launched by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, 2026, which targeted Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior commanders. That phase of the conflict resulted in over 3,000 deaths and the bombing of strategic infrastructure, including the B1 bridge in Karaj. Although a Pakistani-led cease-fire ended the first phase in April, hostilities resumed in July. In response to these pressures, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appointed Hossein Taeb to lead the Basij domestic militia in August to suppress internal unrest.
Currently, Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has warned U.S. officials that a new wave of attacks could force the postponement of Israel's general election, scheduled for October 27. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cautioned that enemies may attempt attacks ahead of the vote, while the UK Maritime and Trade Operations Center reports that Iran has struck at least 13 ships in the Strait of Hormuz since September.
