The White House has asked the Pentagon to develop options for strikes against Iran that could be carried out before the November 3 midterm elections, The Atlantic reported Wednesday, citing two administration officials.
The size and targets of any potential strikes remain under discussion and no final decision has been made, according to the report. US Central Command is developing the options.
The planning comes as President Donald Trump weighs how to demonstrate progress in the eight-month war while seeking to bring down energy prices ahead of the elections, administration officials told The Atlantic.
Supporters of limited strikes acknowledge they would not by themselves bring Iran to the negotiating table, restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz or lower gasoline prices before Election Day, the report said.
The Pentagon has also presented Trump with options for military action after the elections, ranging from limited strikes to large-scale attacks that could include further strikes on Iran's energy industry.
The deliberations come as Washington and Tehran continue indirect contacts through mediators while remaining divided over the terms and sequencing of a ceasefire, the US blockade and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump has repeatedly raised the possibility of renewed military action. Last week, he said he expected the United States to win the war “right after the election,” before adding, “Maybe before the election.”
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