Pentagon orders readiness to resume strikes on Iran

The Pentagon has directed US Central Command to complete preparations for possibly resuming major military operations against Iran, US officials said.

• The Pentagon instructed CENTCOM to finish preparations for a possible resumption of major military operations against Iran, without setting a start date.
• Those preparations may include broad strikes on Iranian energy, infrastructure, and nuclear facilities, US and Israeli sources said.
• Trump has not made a final decision on resuming combat operations, US officials said.
• A White House official said all options remain available to Trump at any time.
• The White House asked the Pentagon to prepare options for strikes on Iran executable before the November 3 midterm elections, The Atlantic reported.
• The plans aim to lower fuel prices and show progress in the conflict before the vote, with scope and targets still under discussion.
• Even proponents acknowledged strikes alone would not push Iran to negotiations, secure Hormuz shipping, or lower fuel prices before election day.
• Trump said the US will not launch an attack on Iran before the November 3 midterm elections.
• He described Iran's economic and military situation as very bad and said pressure on Tehran continues at full strength.
• Trump said Washington is holding productive talks with the Iranian side despite tensions between the two countries.