US warns allies of potential Iran strikes after midterms

US authorities have warned several Middle Eastern nations and regional partners to prepare for potential military actions against Iran following next week's US midterm elections. Two unnamed diplomats, speaking anonymously, cautioned these countries to be ready for the prospect of Iran retaliating against them. President Donald Trump has not yet decided on the matter, but has expressed intention to authorize new military strikes after the elections on 3 November.

This heightened state of alert in the region is due to the US urging its allies to brace for possible retaliations. The White House and US officials have not commented on the issue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on social media that Tehran remains open to diplomacy and is working with mediators to evaluate ideas from a proposal Iran presented last month, which was initially dismissed by Trump.

The UAE Foreign Ministry issued a statement calling upon all sides to exercise caution and seek political resolutions to reduce tensions. The US has informed its allies that the new military actions could persist for several days, but diplomats suggest that retaliations from Iran and its allied groups could prolong the conflict even further.

Allies have also been advised by US officials to fortify their defenses against possible retaliation, particularly targeting energy facilities and essential infrastructure.