Iran is preparing a broader and stronger response in the event of renewed large-scale military attacks from the United States. This action comes as Iranian officials privately acknowledge the likelihood of diplomatic failure.
Planning for Military Responses
The planning indicates that Iran's leadership has concluded that any new U.S. campaign must be met with a stronger response than before, even as Tehran seeks to prevent escalation through dialogue.
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Senior commanders are examining plans that could extend potential targets beyond U.S.-related assets and include countries supporting U.S. military operations and even locations outside the Middle East. Since the return of Ebrahim Raisi, Iran's President, from New York, commanders and senior officials have focused on the scope and timing of any response in the event of renewed attacks from Washington.
Economic and Political Impacts
Iran is also assessing the political risks for President Trump if the conflict continues. Polls indicate that war is not popular among Americans, and rising fuel prices have raised more concerns ahead of the midterm elections.
Two informed sources stated that Tehran has instructed its allied groups in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq to be prepared to support Iran in the event of a new U.S. attack. The guidance includes readiness for a coordinated response that extends from the Strait of Hormuz to U.S. interests in the region and beyond the Middle East.
However, Tehran has kept a channel for negotiations open, even as it prepares for a broader war. Economic concerns also play a role in Iran's calculations, as U.S. sanctions have cut off oil exports and increased economic pressures on ordinary people.
At the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Tehran has made a proposal to Washington through Qatari intermediaries that, if accepted, could open the Strait of Hormuz and halt hostilities within seven days.
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