US and Israel prepare weeklong bombing campaign against Iran – Axios
Photo: The US and Israel are preparing a wave of strikes against Iran (Getty Images)
The United States and Israel have drawn up a plan for large-scale strikes against Iran. Potential targets include the country’s leadership, energy and nuclear facilities, as well as critical infrastructure, according to Axios.
According to US and Israeli officials, a new wave of bombing could begin shortly after the US midterm elections on November 3. The military operation is expected to last one week.
On Monday, October 26, Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir held talks with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Adm. Brad Cooper to coordinate joint actions.
Negotiations through mediators
On Wednesday, October 28, US President Donald Trump told Axios in a brief interview that negotiations with Iran were currently being conducted through intermediaries. However, he said he was not sure they would succeed.
Qatar is playing the leading role in the mediation efforts, with support from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey.
Axios reports that the military option could be called off only if Washington and Tehran reach an agreement at the last minute.
Earlier, The Wall Street Journal reported that the United States had warned several Gulf countries about the possibility of a renewed, short-lived war with Iran after the US midterm elections.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also hinted at a possible resumption of hostilities against Iran. He said Israel and the United States had a unique opportunity to defeat Iran.
