B-52 Stratofortress bomber, Photo: PJF News
The United States of America has announced the deployment of additional military forces in the Middle East, including B-52 bombers, fighters, refuelling aircraft and naval destroyers. This decision was made in connection with plans to withdraw the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group from the region. This was reported by Reuters with reference to the US Department of Defence.
The Pentagon said in a statement that the deployment of the new military forces will take place in the coming months and is intended to demonstrate the United States’ ability to respond flexibly to challenges around the world.
“If Iran, its partners or allies exploit this situation to attack American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take all necessary measures to protect its people,” said Pentagon spokesman Major General Patrick Ryder.
Supporting Israel and resisting Iranian influence
Last year, the United States increased its military presence in the Middle East by deploying up to two aircraft carriers due to rising tensions following the war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023. However, the withdrawal of the Lincoln will leave a temporary gap until a new carrier arrives in the region.
The current correction of forces has taken place against the backdrop of an escalating confrontation between Israel and Iran. Israel is not only confronting the Iranian-backed Hamas group in the Gaza Strip and Hezbollah in Lebanon, but has also engaged in hostilities with Houthi fighters in Yemen, who also have ties to Iran.
Protecting US forces and allies
The United States has pledged strong support for Israel’s defence and expressed its readiness to counter attacks on US forces in the Middle East, which have recently been attacked by Iranian-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Jordan and off the coast of Yemen.
Refocusing forces and demonstrating resolve
The current deployment of military forces is a signal of support for security in the region, as well as the flexibility of US military manoeuvres designed to respond to threats from Iranian allies.
