Trump’s Next Move on Iran? Pentagon Asked to Prepare New Strike Options

WASHINGTON: The Trump administration is considering new military strikes against Iran ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections, with the White House asking the Pentagon to prepare possible military options, according to The Atlantic.

The magazine, citing two administration officials, reported that US Central Command is developing potential strike plans that could be presented to President Donald Trump. However, no final decision has been made on whether the United States will launch a new operation.

The discussions come after weeks of relatively limited military activity between Washington and Tehran. According to the report, the administration is weighing the possibility of limited strikes before the elections, while broader military action after the midterms is also being considered.

The timing of any potential operation has become a key issue for the Trump administration as the November elections approach. The Atlantic reported that officials believe Trump wants to demonstrate progress in the conflict and ease pressure caused by high fuel prices.

US officials have also acknowledged that any new military action could carry significant risks, including further escalation with Iran and additional pressure on energy markets.

The possibility of renewed strikes comes as Washington continues to pursue diplomatic contacts with Tehran alongside military planning. The two sides remain divided over key issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme and uranium enrichment.

US Vice President JD Vance has said that any agreement to end the conflict would require Iran to make significant concessions over its uranium-enrichment capabilities. Tehran, however, has continued to reject demands that would require it to give up its right to uranium enrichment.

Iran has also warned that any major renewed US attack could trigger a stronger response, raising concerns that fresh military action could widen the conflict across the region.

The Pentagon has not confirmed that a new strike has been authorised. A Defense Department official told The Atlantic that the department’s role is to develop and present military options to the president.

For now, the administration is weighing different scenarios rather than implementing an approved attack plan. Any decision by Trump to authorise new strikes would mark a significant escalation in the US-Iran conflict and could have wider consequences for regional security and global energy markets.