Trump asks Pentagon for Iran strike options before midterms - report

The White House has requested the Pentagon to prepare strike options against Iran potentially before the upcoming November 3 midterm elections, according to The Atlantic's report. US Central Command is currently developing these options, but the specific targets, scale of the operation, and President Donald Trump's authorization of military action are still under discussion. The planning is driven by Trump's desire to demonstrate progress in the conflict and alleviate high gasoline prices prior to the election.

Supporters of limited strikes argue that such an operation could provide a military victory for the president before the vote. However, even proponents acknowledge that these strikes alone would not lead to an agreement with Iran, restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, or significantly reduce gasoline prices before Election Day.

The Pentagon has also provided options for post-election operations, ranging from limited attacks to a broader campaign that could encompass additional strikes on Iran's energy industry. Some presidential advisers suggest waiting until after the elections due to concerns that renewed fighting, especially if American troops are killed, might negatively impact Republican candidates.

White House officials confirmed that Trump retains all options at any time, but declined to comment on the timing of potential strikes. This deliberation follows earlier reports about preparations for a possible escalation in the conflict, with the Jerusalem Post citing The Washington Post stating that the Pentagon was considering increasing its naval presence in the Middle East after the elections. The US currently has approximately 50,000 troops in the region.