Largest since 2003: US deploys massive air power to Middle East amid Iran tensions
India Today
The US has deployed its largest air force in the Middle East since 2003 amid rising tensions with Iran. This move raises concerns over potential imminent American strikes and regional instability.
As tensions rise between the United States and Iran, and amid reports of imminent American strikes, Washington is reportedly deploying a significant number of fighter jets and support aircraft to the Middle East. Officials have described the move as the largest concentration of American air power in the region since the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
According to reports, the build-up includes multiple squadrons of advanced fighter jets F-35 and F-22 fighter jets. A second aircraft carrier, carrying attack and electronic-warfare aircraft, is also en route. Command-and-control aircraft, which are essential for coordinating large-scale air operations, are also inbound, while key air defence systems have been deployed to the region in recent weeks.
The military build-up and threat of a potential attack come amid ongoing nuclear talks, with diplomatic efforts still underway. Both sides have indicated that some progress has been made in the discussions. 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.
American broadcaster CNN reported that the US military is prepared to strike Iran as early as this weekend, although Trump has yet to make a final decision on whether to authorise such action.
US officials who spoke to the media said that Trump has received multiple briefings outlining his military options should he choose to launch a strike, with each plan designed to maximise damage to Iran’s regime and its regional proxies.
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The US has deployed its largest air force in the Middle East since 2003 amid rising tensions with Iran. This move raises concerns over potential imminent American strikes and regional instability.