U.S. Forces Prepare Iran Strike Plans as Diplomats Eye Exit
Military planners are weighing attacks on Iranian facilities while officials discuss scaling back the American diplomatic presence in parts of the region.
By Hassan Lawson ·
The U.S. military has drawn up plans for strikes against Iran, though President Donald Trump has not authorized any action.
American forces in the Middle East could begin major operations within 96 hours of receiving a presidential go-ahead, according to a CNN report on October 26. No decision to launch additional attacks has been announced. The military options under consideration target Iranian military facilities, nuclear sites, and energy infrastructure, according to the report. Officials are also weighing how Iran might respond to American personnel and installations across the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has encouraged further military action, though his office has disputed parts of the account of its discussions with Washington. Concerns about regional security have also prompted talks about reducing American diplomatic personnel at certain posts. The preparations are proceeding separately from any decision by Trump to proceed with further strikes.
The buildup comes before the November 3 U.S. midterm elections. Trump has said previously that he would not authorize new attacks before Election Day.
Military planners are preparing the strike options while U.S. diplomatic staffing in parts of the region is under discussion.
Source: KABC
