U.S. Warns Gulf Allies to Prepare for Possible Iran Strikes

The United States has warned several Gulf Arab countries to prepare for a possible short, intense military campaign against Iran after the November 3 midterm elections, according to a report citing people briefed on the discussions. No final decision by President Donald Trump to authorize strikes has been reported. The reported warning was conveyed through diplomatic and military channels. The account also describes preparations by U.S. forces, including reinforcing regional missile defenses, moving personnel away from bases considered vulnerable to Iranian attacks and replenishing munitions. It says an additional Patriot air-defense battery is being sent to Israel from Texas. The White House declined to comment on sensitive military plans, while saying Trump had kept his options open to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. The reported preparations do not establish that an attack has been approved or will take place. The timing and outcome remain uncertain. The possible campaign comes as efforts to resume negotiations have made little headway. A separate report said talks remain at a stalemate and that Qatar had not presented a new proposal to end hostilities during...