- US military ready for Iran operations within 96 hours.
- Potential targets include Iran's energy and nuclear facilities.
- Concerns about retaliation from Iran and Houthi rebels.
Washington: The United States military is reportedly prepared to launch major operations against Iran within 96 hours of receiving an order from President Donald Trump, raising concerns about a fresh escalation of tensions in the Middle East. According to a CNN report, two US officials said sufficient American military assets were already deployed in the region to carry out potential attacks.
However, Trump has not made a final decision on whether to authorise another offensive against Tehran. Military planners are preparing options that could go beyond limited strikes on Iranian radar systems, missile launchers and other military installations.
Energy and Nuclear Facilities Among Potential Targets
The US Central Command and the Pentagon have reportedly developed a broader list of potential targets, including Iran's energy infrastructure, military installations and nuclear facilities. Officials familiar with the planning have indicated that any new campaign could be significantly more extensive than previous operations.
Although the military is prepared to act quickly, uncertainty remains over the timing and scope of a possible offensive. Some current and former US officials believe a decision could come before the end of 2026, with the period following the November 3 US midterm elections considered a more likely possibility.
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Trump has previously appeared close to authorising military action before changing course at the last moment, making the administration's next move difficult to predict.
Iran And Houthis Could Retaliate
US intelligence assessments reportedly indicate that Iran and Yemen's Houthi rebels are taking the possibility of renewed American or Israeli attacks seriously. If Iran is targeted, both groups could respond by attacking US personnel and facilities across the Middle East. Intelligence sources have also raised concerns that potential retaliation could extend beyond the region.
An October 23 memorandum from Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly highlighted increased Iranian efforts to target American personnel. However, US intelligence officials believe Tehran and the Houthis are unlikely to launch pre-emptive attacks under the current circumstances.
Israel Seeks US Support
Israel has reportedly been pressing Washington to support another round of attacks against Iran. However, American officials have urged Israeli leaders to delay immediate action until the United States is prepared for possible joint operations.
Israel's need for American missile-defence support is another factor influencing its calculations, as a renewed conflict could trigger Iranian retaliation and place additional pressure on its defensive systems.
The Pentagon has maintained that its responsibility is to prepare military options for the president. Whether those plans translate into actual strikes remains uncertain.