Latest report exposes Iran's secret plan to widen the war: 'The main war has not yet begun'

WASHINGTON, DC: Iran's hard-line leadership allegedly used the diplomatic period following a June memorandum of understanding to prepare for a wider confrontation with the United States and its allies, according to a Wall Street Journal investigation based on intercepted communications and information from Iranian and Arab officials.

The report says Tehran strengthened the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, expanded missile and drone production and coordinated with allied groups across the region while negotiations continued.

The developments offer a different picture of the diplomatic window, with Iranian officials reportedly viewing the pause as an opportunity to prepare for another phase of the conflict rather than simply move toward a settlement.

Iran reportedly prepares for escalation

According to the Journal, Iranian hard-liners believed the memorandum could give the US and Israel time to ease economic pressure and prepare for another attack. Iranian leaders therefore allegedly used the period to reinforce their military position. 

The reported measures included giving the IRGC greater control over Iran's regular army, placing experienced veterans in important military and security positions, expanding domestic counterintelligence operations and increasing production of missiles and drones.

The report said the IRGC also used the period to prepare its forces and affiliated groups for possible further escalation.

IRGC expands regional coordination

The Journal reported that IRGC advisers were sent to Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon to discuss possible plans with allied militias. The reported coordination was aimed at giving Iran additional options if fighting with the US and its allies intensified. 

Iran also reportedly sought to expand pressure around the Red Sea and Persian Gulf. The leadership's efforts included attacks on ships and attempts to strengthen its position around the Strait of Hormuz, according to the report.

The developments have raised concerns among Arab intelligence agencies monitoring Iran's military and proxy networks.

Tehran weighs more dangerous options

The Journal reported that Iranian officials and public statements pointed to several possible escalation options, including pre-emptive strikes and attacks affecting regional infrastructure.

Among the options discussed were sabotaging internet cables in the Persian Gulf, encouraging political unrest in countries with large Shia populations such as Kuwait and Bahrain, and potentially conducting ground operations in Kuwait.

Kuwait has reportedly taken the possibility seriously and begun preparing contingency plans. The reported scenarios would widen the conflict beyond direct US-Iran confrontation and could place additional pressure on Gulf countries and regional infrastructure.

Iranian analyst warns war remains

Mohammad Hassan Sangtarash, a Tehran-based defense analyst linked to the Iranian government, told the Journal that there was a widespread view in Iran that “the main war has not yet begun.” He described the conflict as involving gradual escalation intended to weaken opposing capabilities before a larger confrontation. 

The Journal also reported that Iran has been rebuilding military infrastructure and restoring access to missile facilities faster than some Israeli officials had expected.

The reported preparations come as Trump continues to demand that Iran abandon any ability to develop a nuclear weapon.