The US military is moving a Patriot air and missile defense system from Texas to the Middle East as Washington and Israel prepare for a possible new round of heavy combat operations against Iran following the November 3 midterm elections, The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.
The Patriot system, which includes radar equipment, an engagement control station, missile launchers, and interceptor missiles, is being deployed to strengthen American defenses amid preparations for a potential escalation.
The US has also relocated troops from bases where they were considered vulnerable to Iranian attacks, officials familiar with the movements told the WSJ.
Washington has reportedly warned several Gulf Arab countries to prepare for a short, intense military campaign against Iran following the midterm elections, according to people briefed on the conversations.
Additionally, US forces have been replenishing their munitions stockpiles, while officials said bomber aircraft and fighter jets are being prepared for possible strikes.
US military buildup ahead of possible Iran escalation
An additional aircraft carrier strike group and Marine Expeditionary Unit are also expected to join approximately 20 US warships operating in the Middle East in November, although some vessels could rotate out of the region.
The reported preparations follow an earlier US decision to deploy a third aircraft carrier and additional Marines to the Middle East. A US official said on October 1 that the USS Theodore Roosevelt and additional Marine personnel were being sent to the region, expanding Washington's military options.
The latest buildup comes as US President Donald Trump weighs further military action against Iran. According to the WSJ, Trump has not made a final decision on launching another campaign, although he is reportedly leaning toward strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure and nuclear facilities. A negotiated agreement remains a possibility.
Iran has threatened to expand its retaliation if the US and Israel resume their attacks, including by targeting energy infrastructure, airports, and other civilian facilities across the Persian Gulf.
Meanwhile, US intelligence warnings about Iranian plots against American officials and citizens have added to regional security concerns. A US official confirmed on Friday that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had received an intelligence memorandum warning that Iranian efforts to target Americans had intensified.
Iran has also reportedly instructed Hezbollah to prepare for a possible renewed conflict. Two diplomatic sources said on October 15 that Tehran had warned the Lebanese terrorist group to increase its readiness in anticipation of further American military action.
The timing, scope, and final decision on any renewed military campaign remain uncertain.