The US military has been directed to prepare for a possible resumption of large-scale combat operations against Iran, according to a report by Axios. The preparations come as tensions remain high, although US President Donald Trump has not made a final decision on whether fighting will resume. The reported directive has placed renewed focus on possible US military operations against Iran.
According to Axios journalist Barak Ravid, the Pentagon instructed US Central Command several days ago to complete preparations for a potential new military campaign. The report, which was also published by Israeli broadcaster N12, cited senior American officials familiar with the situation. The directive reportedly focuses on military readiness rather than setting an immediate start date.
No specific date has been established for launching a possible offensive against Iran. The final decision remains with Trump, who has yet to determine whether the United States will return to large-scale fighting. This means the reported preparations do not necessarily indicate that an attack is imminent.
American and Israeli officials cited in the report said military action could potentially take place before the US midterm elections. They also suggested that operations could begin before Israel holds its own elections, which are scheduled for a week earlier. The timing remains uncertain and depends on political and military decisions.
If US military operations against Iran resume on a large scale, the campaign could reportedly involve extensive strikes on several major targets. Sources cited by Ravid said potential targets could include energy facilities, infrastructure and nuclear-related sites inside Iran.
The possibility of renewed fighting comes amid continued speculation over the next stage of US-Iran tensions. Any major military campaign would carry significant regional implications and could affect security, energy supplies and infrastructure across the Middle East. However, no new offensive has been officially announced.
For now, US military operations against Iran remain a possibility rather than a confirmed decision. Pentagon preparations indicate that American forces are being positioned to respond if Trump orders a return to large-scale combat. The situation remains fluid, with the timing and scope of any potential action still undecided.