Is Trump Waiting For Midterms To End? US Ready To Strike Iran Within 96 Hours, Report Says

The US military is prepared to launch major new attacks against Iran within 96 hours of receiving an order from President Donald Trump, according to a CNN report citing US officials. With American forces deployed across West Asia, Israel pushing for joint action and Iran-aligned Houthis attacking Saudi Arabia, tensions are escalating. However, Trump has not made a final decision, and the period after the November 3 US midterm elections is reportedly being considered a likely window for military action.

Unlike earlier strikes targeting Iran's military capabilities, a new offensive could target energy infrastructure, military installations and nuclear facilities. Current and former officials believe an attack could occur before the end of 2026, although Trump could still change his mind.

US intelligence assessments suggest Iran and Yemen's Houthi rebels are preparing for possible American and Israeli attacks. Tehran and the Houthis could retaliate against US personnel and facilities across West Asia, potentially extending attacks beyond the region. An October 23 memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran had significantly increased efforts to target American personnel. The US Embassy in Riyadh is under an ordered departure, other diplomatic missions could face restrictions, and some nonessential US military personnel have been told not to travel to the region.

The threat is already disrupting Saudi Arabia. According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, 86 per cent of scheduled flights at Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport were cancelled between October 8 and 25, with 4,071 of 4,736 flights grounded. Houthi missile and drone attacks have targeted airports, ports and oil facilities. An October 10 attack killed 13 people, the deadliest such attack in Saudi Arabia in more than a decade.

Riyadh airport partially reopened on Sunday, with domestic flights resuming from Terminal 1 and national carriers permitted to operate international services from Terminal 2. However, the Houthis claimed another attack on Monday. International airlines have suspended Riyadh services into November, Delta Air Lines has postponed its planned route until next year, and several events, including Saudi Arabia's flagship investment conference, have been cancelled or postponed. Nationwide, more than 7,800 flights, or 45 per cent of scheduled departures, were cancelled. Najran recorded no operating flights, while Dammam and Abha reported cancellation rates of 42 and 46.7 per cent, respectively.

Meanwhile, the US blockade of Iranian ports and operations to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz are adding pressure. US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper visited the strait on Sunday. Oil prices remain elevated amid fears of further attacks and energy-supply disruptions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pressed Trump for joint strikes, but Washington has reportedly asked Israel to wait until both countries are ready. Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir reportedly sought further discussions and legal authorisation, fearing escalation. Israel's defence minister rejected reports of a dispute. Netanyahu has said his instructions include toppling Iran's government, although US intelligence assessments reportedly indicate Israel lacks a clear strategic objective beyond weakening the Iranian regime.