US forces are ready to strike Iranian energy, military and nuclear sites within 96 hours of an order, as intelligence points to Iranian plots against Americans.
After last week's reports that Trump is leaning toward resuming major combat, two US officials told CNN that sufficient forces are now in the region. The scope would go beyond strikes on radars and launchers that Iran can quickly rebuild.
CENTCOM and Pentagon leaders have built a target list covering Iranian energy infrastructure, military sites and nuclear facilities.
A Friday memo from Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Iran has stepped up efforts to target US personnel. Lethal plotting is at advanced stages in the Middle East and other countries.
The embassy in Riyadh is under ordered departure, and other posts are expected to follow or face personnel caps. Officials expect Iran and the Houthis to retaliate immediately against US personnel if struck, not to strike first.
Trump has made no final decision and has pulled back at the last moment before. Officials expect any order before year-end, most likely after the November 3 midterms.
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