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Resuming the war within the next three to four weeks could influence the U.S. midterm elections, partially because oil prices might rise in response. Furthermore, a renewed escalation or heightened state of emergency could impact the Israeli elections, as Iran would likely fire hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation.

President Trump spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu on Wednesday, which was their second call in days. The conversation followed a meeting held by Netanyahu with his national security team regarding Iran. Additionally, Netanyahu spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday. If major combat operations resume, it is expected that the U.S. and Israel will work in tandem with the Israeli military participating.

Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran have made no progress. Qatari mediators are currently waiting for a response from Iran to a U.S. counterproposal that included specific demands for nuclear concessions.

U.S. and Israeli sources indicate that strikes could potentially occur before the U.S. midterm elections and possibly before the Israeli elections, which are scheduled a week earlier. However, some Israeli officials suggested that while the chances of it happening before the elections are not high, the chances increase significantly after the midterms.

If major combat operations resume, they are expected to include massive bombing of Iranian energy, infrastructure, and nuclear targets. U.S. officials have noted that the United States is currently in a strong position due to control of the Strait of Hormuz and the collapsing Iranian economy.

The Pentagon instructed U.S. Central Command several days ago to conclude preparations for resuming major combat operations in Iran. While the directive did not include a specific date for launching these strikes, the Department's role is to develop and present all military options to President Trump.