The United States and Israel have developed a plan for a new military operation against Iran that could be launched if diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict collapse, Axios reports, citing American and Israeli officials.

According to the publication, a renewed offensive involving large-scale bombardments could begin shortly after the US midterm elections unless negotiators secure a last-minute agreement.

Washington and Tel Aviv are reportedly considering an intensive military campaign lasting approximately one week. Potential targets include Iranian nuclear facilities, energy infrastructure and members of the Islamic Republic’s senior leadership.

As part of preparations for a possible operation, US Central Command (CENTCOM) commander Admiral Brad Cooper held talks with Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff General Eyal Zamir to coordinate potential military action.

Meanwhile, regional mediators, led by Qatar, are continuing diplomatic efforts to prevent another escalation.

Axios reports that the intermediaries are attempting to persuade Tehran to grant inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) access to Iranian nuclear facilities. In return, Iran would receive partial sanctions relief.

The diplomatic initiative comes after previous attempts to halt the fighting failed to produce a lasting settlement.

In mid-June, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum intended to launch a peace process. However, hostilities resumed just three weeks later.

Since then, the opposing sides have repeatedly attempted to reach new agreements, but persistent disagreements have prevented a diplomatic resolution.

With negotiations still unresolved, the reported US-Israeli military plan remains a potential alternative should the latest efforts to reach a deal fail.