The United States is preparing military options for a possible resumption of major combat operations against Iran, even as President Donald Trump has said Washington will not launch an attack before the November 3 midterm elections, The New York Times and Axios reported on Thursday.

The Pentagon has developed plans for strikes targeting Iran's missile and drone capabilities, energy facilities and other military sites, the New York Times reported, citing U.S. officials.

Three aircraft carriers are expected to be in the Middle East soon, the newspaper said, describing the deployment as a major concentration of military force.

Senior national security officials, led by Vice President JD Vance, discussed the military options at Camp David last Friday, according to people briefed on the proposals. The plans reportedly envisage a short, intensive campaign lasting about three days.

Potential targets include Iran's missile and drone arsenal, which the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has been rebuilding, as well as energy infrastructure and IRGC command centres and headquarters, the report said.

Axios separately reported that the Pentagon had instructed U.S. Central Command several days ago to complete preparations for a possible resumption of major combat operations. The directive did not specify a date for any strikes, and Trump had not made a final decision, Axios said.

The preparations come as Trump continues to signal that he is reluctant to resume large-scale military action. According to the New York Times, he has rejected five proposals in recent months for major operations against Iran or Yemen's Houthi movement, which is backed by Tehran.

In a social media post on Thursday, Trump said he would not attack Iran before the midterm elections, while pointing to ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The U.S. military response to Iran's reported attacks on commercial shipping has remained limited in recent weeks, despite growing concerns over maritime security.

Since September, Iran has struck at least 13 ships, according to a monitoring group run by the British Navy. Intelligence assessments cited by people briefed on the information put the number closer to 20, the New York Times reported.

The incidents have unsettled shipping companies and raised concerns about the security of energy supplies from the Middle East, although oil exports from the region have increased.

The reported military preparations highlight the uncertainty surrounding Washington's next steps as diplomatic efforts continue and tensions over regional shipping and security remain elevated. (ILKHA)