U.S. Warns Middle East Allies to Prepare for Possible Renewed Strikes Against Iran After November Elections

The United States has warned several Middle Eastern allies to prepare for the possibility of renewed military strikes against Iran following the November 3 midterm elections, according to diplomats familiar with the discussions. The warnings also include the possibility of Iranian retaliation against regional countries, particularly attacks targeting energy facilities and critical infrastructure.

President Donald Trump has not made a final decision on additional military action, but he has repeatedly suggested that strikes could resume after Election Day. U.S. officials have reportedly advised allies that a new military campaign could last several days, although Iranian retaliation and involvement by regional proxy groups could prolong the conflict.

The warnings come as tensions continue to spread throughout the Middle East. Iranian-backed Houthi forces have attacked Saudi oil facilities and airports, prompting retaliatory strikes by a Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon has significantly reinforced American military capabilities in the region. The USS Theodore Roosevelt and accompanying amphibious vessels carrying Marines were dispatched from San Diego, adding approximately 9,000 military personnel. The buildup could bring the American naval presence to more than 20,000 sailors and Marines, supported by hundreds of aircraft.

The economic and political consequences of the eight-month conflict are increasingly significant. According to the Pentagon's latest estimate provided to Congress, the war has already cost American taxpayers $47.1 billion. Rising gasoline prices and broader inflationary pressures have also complicated Republican efforts to maintain voter support ahead of the midterm elections.

Trump has simultaneously promised that the war could end within weeks while threatening additional bombing if Iran does not abandon its nuclear ambitions.

Iran, however, continues to advocate diplomatic negotiations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran remains willing to work with mediators on proposals for restoring a ceasefire. The United Arab Emirates has similarly called for restraint and political solutions to prevent renewed large-scale warfare.

Regional security analysts warn that Iran might act preemptively if its leadership believes American military action is inevitable, potentially triggering another escalation even before the elections.

The central concern is that renewed American strikes, intended to last only days, could trigger a much broader and longer regional conflict with substantial military, economic, and diplomatic consequences.

Source and Attribution: This is a summary of reporting by Aamer Madhani and Samy Magdy of The Associated Press, published October 28, 2026. AP journalists Konstantin Toropin and Seung Min Kim contributed additional reporting.