U.S. Reportedly Warns Gulf States of Possible Iran Campaign After Midterms

The United States reportedly warned several Gulf states to prepare for a possible short, intensive military campaign against Iran after November’s midterm elections. The warning was reported early on October 28. The Gulf countries concerned were not named, and the report did not specify when the private messages were delivered. U.S. forces are reportedly reinforcing missile-defense systems, replenishing ammunition and preparing bombers and fighter aircraft for possible strikes. President Donald Trump is described as leaning toward extensive strikes against Iranian infrastructure and nuclear sites. He has not made a final decision, according to the report, which also says Israel is preparing for the possibility of renewed strikes. The reported preparations concern a potential operation rather than an announced order to begin one. No operational start date was specified beyond the reference to a period after the U.S. midterm elections. The account provides no names of the Gulf governments that received the warning or details of the military facilities involved. On October 25, Trump argued that allowing Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon would have grave security consequences. In remarks published by the White House’s rapid-response account, he said a nuclear-armed Iran “would use it.” Those remarks stated his assessment of the threat; they did not announce a decision on the possible campaign now being reported.