Israel has warned the U.S. that Iran may be preparing chemical weapons attacks, dividing American officials over the threat's credibility. Some suspect Prime Minister Netanyahu is using the intelligence to pressure President Trump into renewed military action, according to The New York Times. * Disputed Intelligence: Israel claims Iran is accelerating preparations to deliver chemical weapons through missiles or covert attacks. Some U.S. officials take the warnings seriously, while others and Gulf officials question the evidence and Netanyahu's motives. * Conflicting Assessments: U.S. intelligence has long tracked Iranian chemical weapons development but remains divided over whether Tehran would use them. Iran denies possessing such weapons, while two Iranian officials said their use would require a U.S. or Israeli nuclear attack. Some American officials recalled the flawed 2002 Iraq WMD intelligence. * Israeli Preparations: Despite describing the threat as urgent, Israel's military has not prioritized chemical weapons readiness in this week's civilian defense drills or issued widespread public guidance. * U.S. Military Readiness: Three American aircraft carriers are positioned in the region, with CENTCOM reportedly prepared to begin strikes as early as Wednesday, November 4, if Trump authorizes them. The operational window is limited by an approaching carrier withdrawal and favorable moonless nights. * Diplomatic Divide: Negotiators are pursuing a Strait of Hormuz reopening and nuclear agreement. Some Trump officials favor continued sanctions and blockade pressure, while others doubt economic measures alone will force Iran's government to collapse. * Broader Threats: U.S. intelligence assesses threats to Americans at their highest level since the war began in February, citing Iranian attack preparations, espionage and cyber operations, including attacks on U.S. water systems. 03-NOV-2026 12:54 PM ET