Iran bolsters defenses, threatens broader response to deter US post-midterm strikes

Iran is strengthening its military posture, mobilizing regional proxies, and signaling a harsher retaliation against the US and Gulf allies to deter potential American strikes after the midterm elections. The WSJ report indicates Tehran sees an opportunity to break its current strategic impasse, though the timing and scope of any US action remain uncertain. This escalation raises the risk of a broader regional conflict, with direct implications for Gulf security and energy markets.