The US military has nearly completed preparations for a potential resumption of large-scale combat operations against Iran, deploying additional troops and weapons to the Middle East, Axios reported, citing US officials.

At the same time, diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent another escalation. Qatar is acting as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran, seeking to facilitate a negotiated settlement and avert renewed hostilities.

However, President Donald Trump’s next steps remain uncertain, even among his closest advisers. According to Axios, the Republican Party’s significant defeat in the congressional midterm elections has left the White House facing a difficult strategic decision.

The outlet noted that launching another military campaign against Iran would likely prove deeply unpopular, with no guarantee of success. A former Trump adviser said the president was reluctant to suffer another defeat following the election setback.

Trump himself acknowledged that the war with Iran had negatively affected Republican performance at the polls.

The US president now faces two competing options. He could seek an agreement with Tehran to limit the political fallout or escalate the confrontation by resuming bombing operations against Iran.

Axios warned that neither course offers an easy way forward. Renewed military action carries substantial political and strategic risks, while diplomatic negotiations could encounter serious obstacles.

An agreement could become particularly difficult to secure if Iranian leaders refuse to compromise or toughen their demands, taking advantage of Trump’s weakened political position following the elections.