The US has told several Gulf Arab countries to be prepared for a short, intense military campaign after the US midterm elections, people briefed on the conversations said, The Wall Street Journal reports.

The communications through diplomatic and military channels are among a growing number of indications that the US and Israel are readying to launch a new round of heavy combat operations against Iran, risking a major escalation in hopes of degrading Tehran’s strength and pushing it toward negotiations.

Possible targets include Iran's energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, as well as missile complexes and drones.

US President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision on the strikes, and diplomatic efforts are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the White House told The Wall Street Journal that it will not comment on sensitive military plans, which may or may not exist.

President Trump is considering all options to ensure that Iran is never able to obtain a nuclear weapon, the US presidential administration added.