US warns Gulf allies to prepare for 'short, intense' strikes on Iran after the midterms as Trump says 'anything's possible'

Gulf states are urgently working toward a multipart peace deal under which Iran would restore access to the Strait of Hormuz four days after sanctions are lifted. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has repositioned bomber aircraft, restocked munitions, and deployed an additional carrier strike group to the area.

Iran's deputy national security chief Dr Ali Bagheri has proposed cutting the reopening delay from seven days to four, indicating limited room for flexibility.

Trump told supporters at a Lubbock, Texas rally: 'It can be over whenever I want it to end' — while he has reportedly not yet given the order to strike.