The United States and Israel are reportedly preparing for a potential week-long military offensive against Iran following America’s midterm elections on 3 November. The proposed operation could target Iran’s leadership, nuclear facilities, energy infrastructure and other strategically significant sites, according to international media reports. However, US President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision. At the same time, Gulf nations are stepping up diplomatic efforts to prevent another major military confrontation in the Middle East.
According to US-based news outlet Axios, American and Israeli officials are preparing for a possible seven-day military campaign against Iran. Discussions reportedly include operational planning, military coordination and potential targets. Despite these preparations, there is no confirmation that Trump has authorised the operation.
Axios also reported that Israeli Chief of Staff General Eyal Zamir spoke with US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper last Monday about preparations and coordination for a possible attack. The communication reflects the ongoing military engagement between Washington and Tel Aviv as both countries assess their options regarding Tehran.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also reiterated his determination to bring the campaign against Iran to an end. In a statement on 20 October, he said that completing the operation would mean the downfall of Iran’s leadership. He identified regime change as a central Israeli objective and disclosed that he had discussed the matter with Trump.
However, there has been no clear indication that Washington has agreed to support Israel’s objective of changing Iran’s government. The distinction is significant, as military strikes against nuclear or military facilities would have different strategic implications from an attempt to remove the country’s political leadership.
Meanwhile, several Gulf nations are pursuing diplomatic initiatives to prevent the crisis from escalating into a wider regional conflict. The United Arab Emirates has called on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue a political solution. Qatar is making last-minute efforts to facilitate an understanding between Tehran and the Trump administration, while Saudi Arabia has urged Washington to allow more time for negotiations.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Washington has warned several countries in the Gulf region to prepare for a potentially short but intense military operation after the US midterm elections. The warning reportedly reflects concerns about the possibility of Iranian retaliation and the potential consequences for neighbouring states.
One of the principal concerns is that Iran could respond to an American-Israeli offensive by targeting critical infrastructure across the Gulf. Energy facilities are particularly vulnerable in such a scenario. Any disruption to these installations could affect regional production, international energy supplies and global markets.
As part of its preparations, the Pentagon has expanded the US military presence in the Middle East. The USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier and amphibious assault ships carrying Marine personnel have been deployed towards the Arabian Gulf. These vessels provide substantial military capabilities, including air operations, maritime support and the transportation of troops and equipment.
According to the Associated Press (AP), the deployment involves approximately 9,000 military personnel. Their arrival could increase the total number of US Navy and Marine Corps personnel in the region to more than 20,000. Several hundred military aircraft are also expected to support the expanded deployment.
The increased military presence would give Washington greater operational flexibility in the event of an escalation. However, it has also heightened concerns among regional governments that the situation could deteriorate despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Separately, a senior Pentagon official has been removed from his position amid the preparations for a possible military operation against Iran. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia, who held responsibilities relating to strategy, planning and policy under the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
CNN reported that no official explanation was provided for Sylvia’s removal. The decision comes at a particularly sensitive time, with American and Israeli officials reportedly preparing for a potential confrontation with Tehran. However, no direct link has been established between his dismissal and the reported military planning.
The developments have placed the Middle East on heightened alert. While Israel appears determined to pursue its objectives against Iran, Washington must also consider the wider consequences of military action, including the possibility of retaliatory strikes against American interests and regional allies.
For Gulf countries, the prospect of another major confrontation raises serious security and economic concerns. Their diplomatic efforts reflect a desire to avoid a conflict that could threaten energy infrastructure, disrupt trade and undermine regional stability.
Whether the reported preparations will lead to an actual offensive remains uncertain. Trump’s final decision, the progress of diplomatic negotiations and Tehran’s response to mounting pressure will play decisive roles in shaping the next phase of the crisis. Any renewed military confrontation could extend well beyond the immediate parties, with potentially significant consequences for international energy markets and the global economy.
