Pentagon ready to strike Iran within 96 hours of Trump order

Pentagon ready to strike Iran within 96 hours of Trump order
Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz near the beach of Bandar Abbas, Iran, 28 September 2026.
Reuters

The Pentagon is prepared to launch potentially major military operations against Iran within 96 hours of receiving an order from U.S. President Donald Trump, with sufficient forces already deployed in the Middle East, according to a CNN report.

Some U.S. officials believe an order for renewed military action could come before the end of the year, potentially after the upcoming midterm elections, according to the article.

It suggests that the operation would likely go beyond limited strikes on radars, launchers and other military assets that Iran could quickly replace or rebuild.

Iran and Houthis expected to respond if struck

U.S. intelligence assessments suggest Iran and the Houthis are unlikely to launch a major preemptive attack against American personnel or Israel, but are expected to respond if Iranian territory is struck first.

People walk near an anti-U.S. mural, Tehran, Iran, 26 October 2026.
Reuters
Tehran steps up regional diplomacy amid tensions

Against this backdrop, Iran has also stepped up regional diplomatic and security contacts. A meeting in Tehran on Monday brought together senior officials from Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, with Tehran saying the talks had created a “new, positive atmosphere” for regional cooperation.

Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the discussions focused on regional peace and security, with participants stressing that security in West Asia should be shaped by countries in the region rather than through outside intervention.

Iran signals control over Strait of Hormuz

At the same time, Iran’s military leadership has been highlighting its presence around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Major General Abdullahi, chief of staff of the Armed Forces, said Iranian forces had overall control of the waterway after visiting bases in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman on Monday.

His visit came a day after U.S. Central Command Commander Brad Cooper toured the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the heightened military attention surrounding the key shipping route as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain elevated.

U.S. and Israel reportedly prepare strike options

The New York Times reported last week that the United States and Israel had developed plans for possible renewed strikes on Iran after the midterms. Potential targets could include energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone capabilities.

However, it remains uncertain whether Trump will approve a new military operation, after previously pulling back from plans for major combat.

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