The White House has requested that the Pentagon draft military strike options targeting Iran that could be executed prior to the November 3 US midterm elections, according to US media reports.
Responding to reports, a Pentagon official said: "The Department's job is to develop and present military options to the president."
The official neither confirmed nor denied the specific planning.
A news report in The Atlantic says that the scope, target lists, and final approval for potential strikes remain under internal debate, with several presidential advisers arguing that the strategic window for strikes would sit better after the midterms to avoid spikes in domestic fuel prices.
A White House official emphasised that President Donald Trump "has all options available at any time", adding: "The US is in a very strong position... President Trump holds all the cards and will do whatever is best for the United States."
CENTCOM readiness
Axios revealed on Wednesday that the Pentagon instructed US Central Command (CENTCOM) several days ago to conclude preparations for resuming major combat operations against Iran, covering energy, infrastructure, and nuclear facilities.
While the directive set no fixed launch date, US and Israeli sources indicated action could unfold alongside the October 27 Israeli parliamentary elections.
The planning follows a lengthy Camp David meeting held on Friday by Trump's national security team.
On Wednesday, Trump spoke directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—their second conversation in recent days—after Netanyahu discussed the situation with his security cabinet.
Any resumed offensive would see US and Israeli forces operating in tandem.
Direct hostilities began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched a war against Iran, prompting regional missile counter-strikes and disruptions across the Strait of Hormuz.
Although a Pakistan- and Qatar-mediated memorandum of understanding brought a pause in June, diplomatic negotiations have stalled over nuclear demands, sanctions, and maritime passage.
