The United States has told several Gulf Arab states to be ready for a possible short but intense military strike on Iran after the US midterm elections, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing people briefed on the discussions.
According to the newspaper, the US military is moving a Patriot air defence battery from Texas to bolster its air defences in the region. It is also pulling personnel out of bases considered vulnerable to Iranian strikes.
The Journal said the moves were signs that Washington and Israel were preparing for a new round of military confrontation with Iran.
Asked about the report, the White House declined to confirm or deny it, saying it does not comment on sensitive military plans that may or may not exist. It added that President Donald Trump was keeping all options on the table to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.
According to the report, the preparations form part of wider US and Israeli military planning. Possible targets include Iranian nuclear facilities, energy infrastructure and weapons systems. The aim of any new operation would be to limit Tehran’s military capabilities and increase pressure on it to return to negotiations.
Trump has not taken a final decision on launching new strikes, and diplomatic efforts to reach a deal are continuing.
(information from protothema.gr)
