Iran is preparing to drag out the war with the U.S. until the elections
Iran has become more confident in its military capabilities after six months of war with the U.S. and may be prepared to continue the conflict for several more months. This is according to the latest U.S. intelligence assessments cited by *The New York Times*.
According to the publication, Tehran has gained a better understanding of its own strengths and its ability to strike U.S. targets in the Middle East. Iran also reportedly understands the limitations of U.S. capabilities and may be counting on wearing Washington down through a protracted standoff.
U.S. officials anticipate a new escalation in the coming weeks. Iran may repeat attacks on U.S. military bases, ships in the Strait of Hormuz, and critical infrastructure in countries across the region.
Cyberattacks remain a separate threat. The U.S. links attacks on water supply systems in the U.S. to Iran and has documented hacker groups’ interest in oil and gas infrastructure.
According to U.S. officials, Tehran may seek to prolong the conflict at least until the U.S. midterm elections. An attack on the Strait of Hormuz and rising fuel prices could intensify political pressure on President Donald Trump and the Republican Party.
At the same time, officials in Washington believe that Iran does not yet have significant capabilities to have a large-scale impact on the daily lives of Americans. Vice President J.D. Vance stated that Tehran’s ability to seriously disrupt the lives of U.S. citizens remains limited.
Source: The New York Times.
On September 5, Iranian media reported several explosions near Khark Island in Iran, in the Persian Gulf, where one of the country’s main oil hubs is located.
U.S. President Donald Trump said that the U.S. military may soon strike Mount Picax in Iran, located near the uranium enrichment facility in Natanz. He made the remarks to reporters in the Oval Office.
