The United States and Israel have drawn up plans for a short but intensive round of military strikes on Iran following the American midterm elections on November 3, according to U.S. officials and others briefed on the matter.

The New York Times reported Wednesday that the two countries have ramped up joint military exercises, including aircraft flyovers of Iraq to simulate strike maneuvers. The operation could last approximately three days and target Iranian nuclear facilities, energy infrastructure, and arsenals of missiles and drones.

Potential targets include the heavily fortified Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site. U.S. officials indicated that strikes would likely avoid major oil facilities to limit further spikes in global energy prices. Some planners believe one concentrated round of attacks could severely damage Iran's economy and pressure Tehran into diplomatic concessions after nearly eight months of conflict.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed the plans with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to Israel earlier this month. The Pentagon has continued assembling forces in the region, with deployments expected to conclude in early November.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated he would not authorize strikes before the midterms to avoid impacting gas prices and the elections. Reports indicate Netanyahu has pushed for earlier action, but the U.S. has held back. There remains uncertainty over whether the plans will proceed, as Trump has called off operations multiple times in recent months.

Iranian officials have warned that any renewed fighting would not remain limited or brief. The developments come amid ongoing diplomatic talks, with the threat of strikes potentially intended to strengthen the U.S. negotiating position on Iran's nuclear program and regional activities.

Israel faces its own election on October 27, which could further complicate coordination if results alter the government structure. Military sources described the planning as focused and preparatory rather than a guarantee of immediate action.