US Alerts Gulf Nations on Imminent Iran Strikes Post-Midterms
Washington signaled that a short, intense offensive against Tehran is expected following the November 3 vote, with carrier groups and missile defenses already shifting into position.
By Gabriela Flores ·
The United States has notified several Gulf Arab nations to prepare for a brief, high-intensity military campaign against Iran following the November 3 midterm elections. This warning, relayed through diplomatic and military channels, marks the latest sign that Washington and Jerusalem are coordinating another wave of attacks to pressure Tehran into negotiations.
US military forces are currently restocking munitions in the region, with bomber aircraft and jet fighters being positioned for strikes. A Patriot missile defense system, comprising radar units, launchers, and interceptor missiles, is being transported from Texas to Israel. Flight tracking data and two officials confirmed the movement. Next month, an aircraft carrier strike group and a Marine expeditionary unit will join approximately 20 other warships already deployed in the Middle East.
The Pentagon informed Congress last week that the US-Israeli conflict with Iran has cost $47.1 billion through October 16. This figure represents an increase from the previous $37.5 billion reported by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. More than 60 percent of these costs were attributed to bombs, missiles, and other ammunition.
President Donald Trump has not made a final decision but leans toward a major attack targeting Iranian infrastructure and nuclear sites. He has stated he would not launch an offensive before the midterm elections. At a rally in Florida last week, Trump referenced the military's term for the ongoing war, saying, "We may do another little Epic Fury."
Diplomatic efforts to avoid renewed war stalled on Sunday when Iran rejected a draft agreement from Qatar. A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday that Qatar presented "unacceptable" ideas rather than a formal proposal. The official stated that Tehran would show no flexibility on the nuclear issue. Earlier that week, the State Department ordered a further reduction in staff at diplomatic posts in the region, as troops and diplomats evacuated some locations.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned on Wednesday that any new attack would have a devastating economic impact. He noted that a "devastating impact on int'l markets of any Israel-instigated military misadventure in Persian Gulf region remains major concern for both gas suppliers and consumers."
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promoted new strikes to support his re-election bid. With 85 percent of votes counted, his bloc holds 53 of 120 seats. Netanyahu announced on Wednesday that he would work with Trump to eliminate the "existential threat" posed by Iran. His main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, has also supported strikes alongside economic pressure.
Source: Middle East Eye
