US weighs fresh strikes on Iran after election rout

US President Donald Trump has discussed the possibility of renewed military strikes on Iran with his national security advisers, as the US military reportedly prepares for possible operations ahead of Monday's (November 9) new moon, which could provide darker skies over the Middle East.

According to Fox News, citing US officials, the limited moonlight could create favourable conditions for military operations. However, Trump said on Thursday (November 5) that he had not made a final decision on attacking Iran, adding that a decision could come soon.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) is reportedly preparing for a possible military campaign but has yet to receive an order from Trump.

Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi urged Trump during a phone call on Thursday not to allow US forces to use Iraqi territory as a launchpad for attacks against neighbouring countries.

Amid the tensions, Iran sent a fresh proposal on its nuclear programme to Washington through Qatar. A senior Iranian official told Reuters that the US was reviewing it, but Tehran would not negotiate until Washington met seven conditions, including lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets and paying war reparations.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council secretary Mohsen Rezaei also warned that Tehran would not reopen the Strait of Hormuz or negotiate until its demands were met. Washington insists that nuclear issues must be included in initial talks.

Qatar is continuing mediation efforts between the two sides. Its Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said both parties were reviewing proposals from mediators and discussions remained underway.

Earlier this week, the US reportedly carried out limited strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island, targeting missile systems. Washington described the operation as defensive, saying it did not signal a return to a wider military campaign.

-AH