US military prepares contingency plans for renewed Iran strikes

The United States Department of Defense has directed military commanders to develop and maintain operational readiness for potential strikes against Iran, according to officials familiar with the directive. The preparation encompasses contingency planning rather than an imminent decision to launch military action, defense sources indicated.

Should military operations resume or commence, US forces are expected to concentrate strikes on Iran's nuclear program installations, critical infrastructure targets and energy sector assets. Such targeting reflects long-standing American concerns about Tehran's nuclear ambitions and its role in regional conflicts.

The military preparation underscores escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, which have periodically flared into direct confrontation over Iran's nuclear capabilities and foreign policy activities. The directive comes amid broader Middle East security challenges and diplomatic stalemates between the two nations.

Defense officials emphasized that preparation for military contingencies is routine practice in strategic planning. However, the specific focus on Iran reflects current geopolitical assessments and the administration's readiness posture in the region, where US military presence remains substantial across multiple bases and naval deployments.