OMM Newsroom
The Pentagon is prepared to begin a possible large-scale military operation against Iran within 96 hours of an order from U.S. President Donald Trump. CNN reports that sufficient U.S. forces have already been deployed in the Middle East for such an operation.
Some U.S. officials believe a decision to resume military action could come by the end of the year, possibly after the upcoming midterm elections. CNN writes that an operation would likely go beyond limited strikes on radars, launchers and other military facilities that Iran could replace or restore in a short time.
Iran and the Houthis expected to respond
U.S. intelligence assessments indicate that Iran and the Houthis are unlikely to launch a preemptive large-scale attack against U.S. troops or Israel. However, they are expected to respond if Iran is struck first.
Meanwhile, Iran has stepped up diplomatic and security contacts in the region. A meeting involving senior officials from Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye was held in Tehran on Monday. Tehran said the talks had created a “new, positive atmosphere” for regional cooperation.
Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said regional peace and security were discussed at the talks. Participants stressed that security in West Asia should be shaped by countries in the region, not through outside intervention.
Iran highlights control over the Strait of Hormuz
Iran’s military leadership has also drawn attention to its presence around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, Major General Abdollahi, chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, said Iranian forces had full control of the waterway after visiting bases in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
The visit came a day after Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, visited the Strait of Hormuz. The visits highlight increased military attention to the key shipping route at a time of heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington.
The New York Times reported last week that the United States and Israel were drawing up plans for possible new strikes against Iran after the midterm elections. Potential targets could include energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone capabilities.
It remains unclear whether Trump will authorize a new military operation. He has previously backed away from plans for large-scale combat operations.
