Potential targets include Iran’s energy infrastructure, according to The New York Times.
TBS Report
23 October, 2026, 07:35 am
Last modified: 23 October, 2026, 07:43 am
The US and Israeli militaries have drawn up plans for another round of strikes on Iran following the US midterm elections, with preparations progressing for a possible brief but intense military campaign, The New York Times reported on Wednesday (21 October).
Citing US officials and others familiar with the discussions, the newspaper said the two militaries have intensified training exercises, including flights over Iraq to rehearse strike operations, according to Anadolu Agency.
The potential targets include Iran's nuclear facilities, energy infrastructure and stockpiles of missiles and drones, said the report.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel this week to discuss the possibility of renewed attacks, the Times reported.
The newspaper also reported that plans targeting Iran's nuclear programme could involve an attack on Pickaxe Mountain, a facility buried deep underground.
However, it remains uncertain whether US President Donald Trump will authorise the strikes. The report noted that he has repeatedly rejected proposals to resume large-scale combat operations this year.
Earlier this month, Trump said Washington would not attack Iran before the midterm elections, citing what he described as "productive discussions" between the two sides.
A White House official told the Times that the administration does not comment on military plans "that may or may not exist". The official added that Trump is keeping all options open to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
The US and Israel launched a war against Iran on 28 February. Tehran retaliated with missile and drone attacks across the region and effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global energy supplies.
An agreement framework outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed by the US and Iran in June, following mediation by Pakistan and Qatar, has since stalled over disagreements, including those concerning navigation through the strait.