U.S. officials have told several Middle East countries and regional allies to be prepared for potential renewed military action against Iran after next week's midterm elections in the United States - as well as the possibility that Iran will attempt to retaliate against them, according to two diplomats briefed on the matter.

In South Carolina, Sen. Darline Graham needs to consolidate Republican support amid tight polling with her Democratic opponent, and must deal with an unwelcome write-in campaign for a former Republican foe.

Sen. Chris Murphy, Connecticut Democrat, said Wednesday that the Trump administration is engaged in a cover-up effort to hide the extent of the damage done to U.S. military bases in the Middle East by Iran this year.