US prepares options for fresh three-day strikes on Iran

WASHINGTON – The Pentagon has reportedly drawn up plans for a potential three-day military campaign against Iran, with proposed targets including missile and drone capabilities, energy infrastructure and military command centres. The plans were prepared at the direction of US President Donald Trump, despite his repeated reluctance to resume large-scale military operations amid indications of progress in diplomatic efforts, according to a report by The New York Times cited by Al Jazeera. Citing unnamed officials, the report said the proposed operation would focus on weakening Iran's military capabilities, particularly its missile and drone arsenal, while also targeting key energy facilities and command structures. The reported preparations come amid continued uncertainty over Washington's next steps towards Tehran, with diplomacy and the possibility of renewed military action remaining competing options. US Senator Accuses Pentagon of Concealing Iran War Damage US Democratic Senator Chris Murphy has accused the Department of Defense of withholding information about the consequences of the war with Iran after he was denied access to American military facilities in the region. Speaking to CNN, Murphy rejected the explanation that security concerns had prevented his visit, saying he had travelled to US military positions in Iraq and Afghanistan during periods of active conflict. 'This was not a question of safety. This is a question of cover-up,' Murphy said, alleging that defence officials in the region had also declined to brief him at the US embassy. Murphy said the State Department had permitted him to inspect damage to the embassy, which he described as extensive. He further argued that the attack could have caused significant casualties had it taken place during the daytime, when more American personnel might have been present. The senator's remarks raised questions about the extent of damage sustained by US facilities and the information being shared with lawmakers regarding the conflict. Saudi Airlines Reports Employee Death, Aircraft Damage at Riyadh Airport Saudi Airlines has reported the death of an employee and damage to an aircraft following an incident at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The airline said on Friday that the aircraft was on the ground when the incident occurred and had no passengers on board at the time. According to the airline, airport flights and operations had returned to normal by 6pm on Thursday. The airline did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident or the extent of the damage to the aircraft.