Massive air deployment in Middle East since 2003 Iraq invasion: US prepares to strike Iran, Trumps nod awaited
PTC News Desk: As tensions seemingly rise between the United States and Iran, reports of imminent American strikes on Iran have come to the fore with Washington deploying significant fighter jets and support aircraft to the Middle East.
Reports say the military build-up includes several squadrons of advanced fighter jets such as F-35s, F-22s, F-15s and F-16s. Command-and-control aircraft, which help manage large air operations, are also being sent to the region. Important air defence systems have already been deployed in recent weeks, and more fighter jets are on the way, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The US Navy currently has 13 ships stationed in the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean Sea to support a possible operation. These include the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and nine destroyers that can defend against ballistic missiles. Another aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, along with four destroyers in its strike group, is also heading to the region.
The deployment and potential threat come amid ongoing nuclear talks with diplomatic efforts underway. Broadly, US President Donald Trump wants Iran to abandon its nuclear programme, while Iran has firmly refused, insisting that it is not attempting to develop an atomic weapon.
US officials told the media that former President Donald Trump has received several briefings explaining his military options if he decides to launch a strike. Each plan is aimed at causing maximum damage to Iran’s government and its regional allies.
At the same time, Iran has tried to play down the US military threats, saying it is ready for any level of conflict. The country carried out naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz this week and plans to hold joint naval exercises with Russia on Thursday, while still keeping diplomatic channels open.
- With inputs from agencies
