U.S. forces in the Middle East are prepared to launch new, potentially major operations against Iran “within 96 hours of receiving” an order from President Donald J. Trump, according to two U.S. officials who spoke to CNN. The officials say sufficient forces are in the region and the scope would go beyond “mowing the lawn,” meaning strikes on radars and launchers that can be quickly rebuilt. CNN reports officials believe an order could come before the end of the year, most likely after the November 3rd midterm elections. Officials also said President Trump has not made a final decision, appears to lean toward major action, and has backed off at the last moment before. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and Pentagon leaders have built a target list covering Iranian energy infrastructure, military sites and nuclear facilities. Sources told CNN that Iran and the Houthis would likely retaliate immediately against U.S. personnel and facilities in the region but are unlikely to launch preemptive attacks now. Only the embassy in Riyadh is currently under ordered departure, but one source says others are expected to follow or face personnel caps. Source: cnn.com/2026/10/26/politics/…

A vessel has reportedly been attacked near the Port of Basra, Iraq and is now on fire. Iran targeted a vessel in this area on October 20th, and is among the more than two dozen Iranian attacks on shipping since the beginning of October.