US, Israel Draw Up Plans for New Attack on Iran Immediately After US Midterms: NYT

[Financial News] The New York Times (NYT), citing U.S. officials and others, reported on the 21st (local time) that the United States and Israel had drawn up a joint operational plan to carry out another military attack targeting Iran immediately after the U.S. midterm elections, which will be held on November 3.
According to the report, the two countries have significantly stepped up the intensity of their military training in preparation for the attack, described as a “short-term but high-intensity operation.” They are reportedly accelerating preparations for combat, including conducting simulated airstrike flight exercises over Iraq, Iran’s western neighbor.
Potential primary targets include Iran’s major energy and nuclear facilities, as well as missile and drone bases. Officials cited by the newspaper said, “If another large-scale airstrike is carried out, it could deal a devastating blow to Iran’s economy and ultimately elicit diplomatic concessions.”
However, it was reported that there remains a small possibility that U.S. President Donald Trump could launch a surprise attack sometime this month, before the election. The possibility that he may ultimately decide not to authorize military action at all also remains open.
After the report was published, President Trump told reporters before boarding Air Force One that no negotiations with Iran were currently underway and said, “Something will happen soon.” He added, “Most people seem to think it will be after the election,” drawing attention to his remarks.
Meanwhile, the U.S. government ordered U.S. government employees in Saudi Arabia and their families to leave the country. The move is believed to be a response to the recent escalation in long-range strikes by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott issued a statement on social media platform X, saying, “The State Department has ordered U.S. government employees in Saudi Arabia who are not needed for emergency response, along with their accompanying family members, to depart.”
Pigott said, “Iran-backed Houthi rebels are escalating their hostile actions against Saudi Arabia, including attacks targeting civilian airports and key infrastructure. This has resulted in civilian casualties and serious travel disruptions.” CNN reported that other U.S. diplomatic missions in the Middle East are also adjusting their staffing in response to threats from Houthi rebels.
CBS News also reported that the size of the U.S. military presence in the Middle East is being reduced amid continuing threats from Iran and the Houthi rebels.
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