U.S. Forces Could Strike Iran Within 96 Hours of an Order

U.S. forces in the Middle East could launch a new military operation against Iran within 96 hours of an order from President Donald Trump, putting renewed geopolitical risk in focus for oil and broader markets.

Two U.S. officials said forces already deployed in the region are sufficient for potential strikes. They described a possible operation as large in scale, with targets potentially extending beyond Iranian radar, missile launchers and other military assets that can be quickly restored.

The U.S. has pursued recurring limited strikes since Trump halted full-scale combat operations earlier this year. The approach is intended to weaken Iran’s military capabilities over time.

Current and former officials familiar with military planning discussions said an order could come at any time before year-end, though they viewed the period after the U.S. midterm elections as more likely.