US Military Prepares for Possible Major Strikes on Iran Within 96 Hours: Report

Mangalore Today News Network

Washington, Nov 1, 2026: US forces in the Middle East could launch major strikes against Iran within 96 hours of receiving an order from President Donald Trump, CNN reported, citing US officials. Trump has not authorised an attack, but military planners are preparing options for a wider operation targeting Iranian military bases, nuclear facilities and energy infrastructure.

Some officials believe a decision could come after the US midterm elections on November 3, although no timeline has been confirmed. The White House has declined to comment.

The latest escalation follows months of conflict that began on February 28, 2026, when the US and Israel launched major strikes against Iran. Tehran retaliated with missile and drone attacks across the Gulf and threatened shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire was reached in April, followed by a June agreement facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar. However, the arrangement collapsed within weeks and expired in August, leaving the conflict unresolved.

Tensions have since intensified over the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted shipping while Washington has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports. The disruption has affected global energy supplies and pushed up oil transportation costs. Oil prices crossed USD 115 a barrel following a Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura refinery.

Meanwhile, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are pursuing diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. Officials from the three countries met Iranian representatives in Tehran on October 26 to discuss regional security and the resumption of negotiations.

Qatar has also proposed a fresh peace initiative, but an Iranian official reportedly rejected the proposals as unacceptable.

The main sticking point remains Iran’s nuclear programme. Washington is demanding restrictions on Tehran’s nuclear activities, while Iran wants the US to lift its port blockade and sanctions on oil exports.

Adding to concerns, the International Atomic Energy Agency has said it cannot verify the status of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile because inspectors have been unable to access all relevant nuclear facilities.