Trump weighs Iran strikes post-midterms; rules out pre-vote action

President Trump has confirmed the US will not conduct military strikes against Iran before the November midterm elections, despite Pentagon preparations for a three-day intensive strike involving three carrier strike groups and 20,000 troops. This decision, while de-escalatory in the near term, is tactical, with the underlying military readiness and intent for future action remaining high. The scope and timing of potential post-election strikes are uncertain.