The Trump administration has discreetly alerted several Gulf Arab nations to brace for another significant U.S. military campaign against Iran after the upcoming November 3 midterm elections.
According to reports from the Wall Street Journal, U.S. forces are enhancing Israel’s missile defenses, replenishing weapon supplies, and relocating troops from vulnerable bases as preparations for potential confrontations ramp up. Although President Donald Trump has yet to formally greenlight any operations, there seems to be a tendency toward targeting Iranian infrastructure and nuclear facilities, as indicated by sources familiar with his views.
Trump hinted at the possibility of renewed conflict during a campaign rally in Florida last Friday. He mentioned, “We may do another little Epic Fury, or they’ll agree,” as noted in a rally transcript.
The White House has stated that no military actions will occur before the midterms, but it hasn’t ruled out actions post-elections.
The warnings were communicated through both diplomatic and military channels to various Gulf nations. American and Israeli military planners are reportedly considering an offensive aimed at weakening Tehran to pressure its leaders into negotiations, according to the Journal. Trita Parsi, from the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, shared concerns that the forces pushing for another war are stronger than those resisting it.
These warnings follow a report suggesting that U.S. military operations against Iran could escalate quickly, as conveyed by a senior military official. This official candidly remarked, “Things are about to get spicy.”
The Pentagon is deploying another Patriot air defense system from Texas to Israel, along with preparations for bombers and fighter jets for possible strikes. In addition, around 9,000 more sailors and Marines have begun their deployment aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Makin Island, which could increase the regional U.S. naval presence to three aircraft carriers and over 20,000 personnel, as per the Associated Press.
There are possibilities of another carrier strike group and Marine unit joining about 20 U.S. warships in the Middle East in November, although some may rotate out. The White House has refrained from commenting on potential military operations while asserting that Iran should never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. Trump reiterated that there would be no new attacks before the midterms.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also advocating for renewed military actions, with Israeli officials preparing potential targets for further operations. Netanyahu reportedly sees military pressure as a method to diminish the strength of the Iranian regime.
This anticipated offensive would come after months of American sanctions and a naval blockade that have significantly restricted Iran’s oil exports and trade. Since mid-July, American naval actions have hindered Iranian oil tankers from effectively evading enforcement, with at least 53 oil-laden tankers reported to be stranded along Iran’s coastline as of late October.
The U.S. has also enacted new sanctions on foreign shipping agents and vessels involved in Iranian trade, all part of an effort to stifle Tehran’s oil revenues. The conflict has reportedly cost the U.S. around $47.1 billion by mid-October, including nearly $29 billion in used weapons alone, excluding damages to U.S. bases.
Yet, the actual costs may be considerably higher, as Iranian attacks have led to significant damage to numerous buildings and structures at U.S. military locations across eight Middle Eastern countries. Estimates indicate about $184 million in damage to U.S. diplomatic facilities, while the cost of repairs for military infrastructure is still being assessed.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has not observed any repairs at Iranian nuclear sites that were harmed in attacks from 2025 and 2026. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi highlighted that Iran has not allowed inspectors the access needed to confirm its nuclear materials, which include approximately 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium.
Despite this, inspections continue at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Reports indicate that Iran possesses hundreds or possibly thousands of missiles and is in the process of developing new ballistic weapons. Tehran has threatened to target economic and civilian locations throughout the Gulf if the U.S. instigates another assault.
As Washington and its allies look to resupply air defense systems depleted during prior Iranian attacks, there remains uncertainty. Some experts argue that the U.S. currently holds a winning position through sanctions and the blockade and should maintain its strategy, while regional negotiators are still trying to revive discussions amid ongoing disagreements over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
