US tells Gulf states to prepare for a short, powerful strike on Iran after the midterm elections

The United States has told Gulf Arab states to prepare for a short but powerful military operation against Iran after the U.S. midterm elections, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

The messages, sent through diplomatic and military channels, are part of a series of growing indications that the United States and Israel are preparing to launch a renewed, large-scale military operation against Iran. The step could be taken in the hope of weakening Tehran's military capability and forcing the country to the negotiating table, though it carries the risk of the conflict growing larger.

Flight-tracking data and two officials familiar with the matter indicate that an additional Patriot missile defense system is being sent from the U.S. state of Texas to Israel to further strengthen Israel's missile defenses.

In addition, as part of preparations for a possible escalation, U.S. troops have already been moved out of Middle East military bases where they were at risk of attack, The Wall Street Journal reported earlier.

Several officials said U.S. forces stationed in the Middle East are replenishing their ammunition stockpiles, while bomber aircraft and fighter jets are preparing for strikes.

Next month, another aircraft carrier strike group and a Marine expeditionary unit are preparing to join the fleet of roughly 20 warships deployed in the Middle East, though some of those ships may be rotated out and replaced by others.

People familiar with the planning said President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision, but is leaning toward a major strike after the elections. The possible targets of such an attack could be Iran's infrastructure and nuclear facilities.

As an alternative, an attempt could be made to reach a settlement with Iran. Regional mediators have continued diplomatic efforts, but so far without any significant success.

At an election rally last week, Trump said, "We may do another small 'Epic Fury' operation. Or they will agree." By 'Epic Fury' he referred to the extensive bombing campaign carried out by the United States and Israel in the spring.

The White House said it would not comment on sensitive military plans that may or may not exist in reality. Its statement said: "President Trump has kept all options open to ensure that Iran can never obtain a nuclear weapon." Trump has previously said he will not strike Iran before the midterm elections.