US signals possible Iran attacks as midterms loom

Signs point to a possible resumption of US attacks on Iran within 72 hours of the US midterm elections, as President Donald Trump has repeatedly signaled military action could follow the November vote. Trump stated Washington still needs to address targets including "Pickaxe Mountain," a secret nuclear site near Natanz, while also leaving open the possibility of a deal with Tehran. The administration is divided, with Vice President JD Vance pushing for diplomacy and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth favoring renewed hostilities, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio said no final decision has been made. Iran's Supreme Leader has ordered military commanders to prepare an immediate, unrestricted response to any new attack, while diplomatic channels remain open. Trump and Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu have re-established contact amid regional tensions, and Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has proposed forming a government with Arab party support under strict conditions.