US-Iran war risk rises as both sides prepare for possible strikes

US officials fear Iran is in advanced stages of planning attacks on Americans, while Tehran anticipates fresh US-Israeli strikes, raising the risk of a full-scale war amid political uncertainty in both countries. Diplomats warn a single incident, such as a gunshot aimed at a US official or an explosion near Iranian leaders, could trigger a conflagration. Trump is reportedly leaning toward another round of major strikes, with plans targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, though he has said he won't act before the midterm elections in 10 days. Iran has threatened to expand targets to include civilian infrastructure, underwater cables, and US diplomats, and has vowed surprise attacks with "zero red lines." Upcoming elections for Netanyahu and Trump are complicating calculations, as both may seek to act before potential changes in power.