Iran said to be in advanced stages of planning attacks on Americans

· Security · Iran · United States

US officials say Iran is in the "advanced stages" of planning attacks against Americans, with potential targets also in Europe, according to an intelligence memo from DNI director Jay Clayton. American embassies are tightening security ahead of the US midterm elections. A US envoy said Washington could strike Iran this weekend, and Tehran warned that even limited strikes would trigger a response "several times greater." Iran's president is due in Moscow to meet Vladimir Putin. Iran also said US forces are not allowed to enter the Gulf "under any circumstances," and officials said Tehran has detailed plans to hit Gulf undersea cables if war resumes.

Why it matters:Escalating threats between Washington and Tehran raise the risk of a wider Middle East war that could disrupt oil flows and Gulf infrastructure.

Key points

  • An intelligence memo says Iran's plots have reached advanced stages.
  • A US envoy said strikes on Iran could come this weekend.
  • Iran warned Gulf undersea cables could be targets if war resumes.

Sources (original reporting)

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