'New York Times': US-Israeli Plans to Resume Strikes on Iran
New York Times report reveals joint military plans against Iran targeting nuclear facilities
Translated by Qiyas from السياسة — Original source
- Preparations for a military operation after the midterm elections could target nuclear facilities, missiles, and energy infrastructure
The New York Times, citing U.S. officials and informed sources, reported that the United States and Israel have drawn up plans to resume military strikes against Iran following the upcoming U.S. midterm elections on November 3, amid preparations for a potential short and intense military operation.
The newspaper stated in a report that the U.S. and Israeli militaries have intensified their military drills, including conducting air sorties over Iraq to practice offensive maneuvers, as part of preparations to launch new strikes on Iranian targets.
It clarified that potential targets include Iran’s nuclear facilities, missile arsenal, drone fleet, and energy infrastructure, noting that the plans may involve targeting a deep underground nuclear facility known as the “Mount Pickaxe” (Fordow).
It added that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during his visit to Israel this week, the possibility of resuming military strikes against Iran.
The newspaper quoted U.S. officials as believing that carrying out an intense, limited-duration military campaign could inflict significant damage on the Iranian economy and push Tehran to make concessions in negotiations.
However, the report emphasized that President Donald Trump’s approval for carrying out the strikes remains uncertain, particularly as he has rejected several plans in recent months to resume large-scale military operations against Iran.
It pointed out that the possibility of carrying out strikes before the U.S. elections remains, albeit limited, while Trump may ultimately decide not to approve any new military operation.
In response to the report, a White House official said the U.S. administration does not comment on military plans that may or may not exist, affirming that Trump is keeping all options open to ensure Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.
Trump had previously announced in early October that the United States would not attack Iran before the midterm elections, noting at the time that there were talks with Tehran that he described as productive.
The report comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz, and the stagnation of efforts to reach an agreement ending the confrontation between the two countries.
