President Donald Trump is considering the possibility of renewing American strikes on Iran before the US midterm elections, after the White House asked the Pentagon to draw up options for hitting Iranian targets. The Atlantic reported today, citing two administration officials.
According to the report, the Pentagon is examining the scope of potential strikes and their targets, but no final decision to proceed with an operation has been made at this stage. The plans are being developed at US Central Command, which coordinates the military effort in the region.
The discussions are taking place against the backdrop of Trump's desire to show progress in the campaign and bring down fuel prices ahead of the November 3 elections.
However, officials involved in the discussions warn that another strike could actually lead to a rise in oil prices and increase the risk of Iranian retaliation against the roughly 50,000 American troops stationed in the region.
Trump has already stated in the past that he may renew strikes after the elections, but last week said they might resume even before then.
