US Warns Gulf Allies of Possible Military Operation Against Iran
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US Warns Gulf Allies of Possible Military Operation Against Iran

By Editorial Team•Oct 28, 2026 · 10:46 AM•3 min read
AI-generated representative image: A US Navy warship transits the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic waterway at the center of escalating US-Iran tensions.
Editorial Team
Editorial Team
Washington signals a short but intense campaign against Iran could follow the November midterms as Tehran vows to defend itself

The United States has warned several Gulf Arab countries to prepare for a short but intense military operation against Iran that could begin after the November 3 US midterm elections, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

President Donald Trump is reportedly leaning toward launching major strikes on Iran's infrastructure and nuclear facilities, although no final decision has been made. The warnings also indicate that Israel is preparing to take part in renewed combat operations.

The reported warnings mark a significant escalation in an already volatile standoff between Washington and Tehran, raising the prospect of renewed regional conflict at a moment when negotiations remain stalled and both sides blame each other for the impasse.

The developments carry broad implications for global energy security, commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and the safety of US troops stationed across the Gulf region.

Military Preparations Underway

The United States is reportedly deploying an additional Patriot air defense missile battery to the region and moving troops away from vulnerable bases in anticipation of Iranian retaliation. Washington is also replenishing munitions and preparing additional aircraft and warships for possible operations.

Trump has threatened to attack Iran again if it refuses to accept his terms, as negotiations remain stalled. The US last carried out a wave of strikes on Iranian territory on September 1 and has since attacked Iranian tankers and other vessels.

Iran has responded by firing on commercial ships attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz through a US Navy-designated route, which Tehran considers illegal.

Background of the Standoff

The current crisis follows months of escalating military exchanges between the two countries. The September 1 strikes on Iranian territory marked the most recent major US offensive action, followed by attacks on Iranian tankers and other vessels.

The broader conflict has been shaped by stalled negotiations, with both Washington and Tehran accusing the other of refusing to compromise. Trump has repeatedly linked the threat of further military action to Iran's unwillingness to accept his terms.

Concerns have also emerged about dwindling US missile interceptor stockpiles amid the ongoing operations. Trump has dismissed these concerns, insisting that the military has sufficient munitions to sustain any renewed campaign.

Iranian Response and Public Opinion

Iranian officials have pledged to defend the country against any renewed attack. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned last week that the US would suffer "an even greater strategic failure" if it opts for renewed military action.

State-run broadcaster Press TV, citing a senior Iranian official, reported on Tuesday that Tehran is prepared for an all-out war "without any limitations."

The conflict remains deeply unpopular among Americans. A Fox News poll published in September found that 71% of registered voters believed the Trump administration lacked a clear strategy for ending the conflict, and 60% said attacking Iran was a mistake. A Pew Research Center survey published earlier this month showed 65% disapprove of Trump's handling of operations against Iran, compared with 33% who approve.

What Comes Next

No final decision on military action has been made, according to people familiar with the matter. The reported timeline suggests any major operation would follow the November 3 midterm elections.

Negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain stalled, with both sides blaming each other for the impasse. Further official confirmation of the reported military preparations has not yet been issued.

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