US mobilizes warships as intelligence warns of advanced Iranian attack plots

The United States has intensified military preparations in the Middle East following intelligence warnings of advanced Iranian attack plots targeting American personnel. US naval forces, including the USS George Washington aircraft carrier strike group, have begun loading munitions and readying aircraft for potential renewed strikes, according to reports from The Wall Street Journal on Saturday, 24 October. Intelligence Alerts and Military Movement A memorandum sent on Friday, 23 October to Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iranian plots to conduct lethal operations against US citizens have reached "advanced stages." While the document did not specify targets, it noted that threats extend beyond active conflict zones. In response, Washington has begun adjusting its regional footprint, ordered non-emergency diplomatic staff to exit Saudi Arabia, and restricted operations at embassies in the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, and Lebanon. US President Donald Trump on Friday referenced the possibility of a new military campaign, similar to "Operation Epic Fury," if negotiations remain stalled. Military commanders have reportedly presented the White House with strike options targeting hardened Iranian infrastructure, including the "Pickaxe Mountain" nuclear facility, and strategic energy hubs such as Kharg Island and Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Pressure and Diplomatic Standoff The escalation follows reports that Israel is pressing Washington for an accelerated…