The United States has strengthened its military presence in the Middle East to a level that would allow it to carry out a major military operation against Iran within 96 hours of an order from President Donald Trump, according to a report by CNN cited by Agenzia Nova.
The report, published on 25 October, cites two US officials familiar with military planning who said operational preparations have advanced well beyond the limited strikes previously conducted against Iranian military targets.
Nuclear, military and energy facilities identified as potential targets
According to the report, planning is no longer focused solely on radar systems, missile launchers and other military assets that Tehran could quickly replace.
Instead, the US Pentagon and CENTCOM have reportedly drawn up a broader list of potential targets that includes:
- Military installations
- Energy infrastructure
- Nuclear facilities
One US official described the planning as a large-scale military operation that could be significantly broader and longer-lasting than previous strikes.
Decision remains with Trump
Despite the military preparations, no final decision has been taken.
Officials cited by CNN reportedly believe an order could come before the end of the year, with some viewing the period after the US midterm elections as the most likely window.
At the same time, sources noted that Trump has previously authorised military preparations without ultimately approving action.
The White House declined to comment on the report, while a senior Pentagon official said the Defence Department's role is to prepare and execute the military options approved by the president.
Israel reportedly pushing for action
The report also highlights Israel's role in ongoing discussions.
According to two US officials and an Israeli security source cited by CNN, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought renewed strikes against Iran before the US midterm elections.
The Trump administration reportedly asked Israel to delay any such operation to allow for closer coordination and the possibility of joint US-Israeli action.
According to the same sources, Israel has postponed its plans for now but has not abandoned the possibility of further military operations.
The report notes that Israel would likely require US support for missile defence in the event of Iranian retaliation.
Fears of retaliation and wider escalation
US intelligence assessments reportedly suggest that both Iran and Yemen's Houthi movement regard further American or Israeli attacks as a serious possibility.
While Tehran and the Houthis are not believed to be seeking immediate escalation, US officials reportedly consider it likely that any attack on Iran would trigger retaliatory strikes against American personnel and facilities in the Middle East, and potentially beyond the region.
Washington is therefore examining additional measures to reduce staff at some diplomatic missions as a precaution.
Hormuz remains a concern
Particular attention is being paid to the Strait of Hormuz, where tensions and threats to shipping continue to raise concerns.
CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper visited the area on Sunday, underlining its strategic importance to US military planners.
The prospect of attacks on Iranian infrastructure and possible reprisals continues to fuel uncertainty in global energy markets, given the strait's central role in the transportation of oil supplies.
According to the report, the key question is no longer whether the United States possesses the capability to carry out another military operation against Iran, but whether Trump decides to authorise one.
Source: CNN
