US prepares Gulf allies for possible post-election campaign against Iran

The Trump administration has reportedly told several Gulf allies to prepare for a brief, intense military campaign against Iran after the US midterm elections. Trump has not ordered an attack, but is said to be considering strikes on Iranian infrastructure and nuclear sites, a shift that could renew a conflict with broad regional and economic consequences.

US forces are replenishing munitions and preparing aircraft, while an additional Patriot system is being sent to Israel and a further carrier group and Marine unit may join about 20 warships in the region. The war is in its eighth month and was estimated to have cost $47.1 billion by mid-October, including $29 billion for munitions; Iran has threatened to retaliate against economic and civilian targets, and mediators are trying to revive talks.