In brief
The U.S. has advised Gulf states that it and Israel could launch a rapid attack on Iranian infrastructure following the 2026 midterms, with President Donald Trump reportedly leaning toward a major strike but still undecided. U.S. forces are stocking ammunition and positioning aircraft, while Israel has outlined possible targets, and Trump has hinted at a deal or a short "Epic Fury" campaign. Uncertainty remains over the final decision and the timing of any joint operation.
On October 28, 2026, the United States warned several Gulf Arab nations that it could prepare for a short but intense military campaign against Iran later in the year, following the U.S. midterm elections, The Wall Street Journal reported in a story that cited people briefed on the conversation. The U.S. claims that it and Israel are weighing a rapid strike on Iranian infrastructure, with U.S. forces in the Middle East replenishing ammunition stocks and positioning bombers and fighter jets for potential action.
Xinhua’s coverage of the same story notes that Israel has drawn up plans and identified targets for a possible new attack, echoing the Wall Street Journal description that the U.S. and Israel are preparing for another round of intense military operations against Iran. The report also indicates that the United States is evaluating a brief campaign similar to the spring bombing effort called “little Epic Fury” by President Donald Trump.
President Trump has not yet made a final decision, but the sources say he is leaning toward a major attack that would target Iranian infrastructure and nuclear sites. Trump has indicated that he could seek a deal with Iran and has said he will not launch any attack before the midterm elections. The report notes that last week the president appeared to emphasize the possibility of a short “Epic Fury” campaign or an agreement to resolve the conflict, while still leaving the final choice unresolved.
The Wall Street Journal notes that the U.S. caution to Gulf allies comes as the president’s administration seeks to balance a potential strike with diplomatic options, and that U.S. forces are coordinating with Israeli counterparts to prepare for a possible rapid response. No specific dates or tactical details have been released, and the sources do not provide a timetable for a potential operation.
In sum, the U.S. has signaled to Gulf allies that it could launch a short but intense campaign against Iran after the midterms, with U.S. and Israeli forces actively preparing for such an operation. President Trump’s position remains undecided, as does the decision of whether a deal or a “little Epic Fury” strike will ultimately occur, leaving the timing and scale of any campaign uncertain.
