Trump prepares for Iran escalation after U.S. and Israeli elections

What happened: A Middle East war Trump said would end in weeks is entering its eighth month and looks set to escalate, with Trump hinting at renewed strikes on Iran after the Nov. 3 U.S. midterm elections. Key numbers: Eighth month of war; U.S. midterm elections on Nov. 3; third aircraft carrier strike group and 10,000 additional sailors and Marines sent toward the Persian Gulf. Why it matters: The added carrier group and troops give U.S. commanders more options if hostilities restart, while staffing at Mideast bases hit by Iranian counterstrikes has reportedly been reduced. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

A Middle East war Trump said would end in weeks is entering its eighth month and looks set to escalate, with Trump hinting at renewed strikes on Iran after the Nov. 3 U.S. midterm elections.

The added carrier group and troops give U.S. commanders more options if hostilities restart, while staffing at Mideast bases hit by Iranian counterstrikes has reportedly been reduced.