A US Air Force B-2 stealth strategic stealth bomber in Glendale, Arizona, 15 November 2022. Photo: Sra Noah Coger/Planetpix/Zuma Press
The United States is increasing its military presence in the Indian Ocean amid an escalating conflict in the Red Sea. Satellite imagery analysed by the Associated Press shows at least four B-2 Spirit strategic bombers deployed to Diego Garcia, allowing them to strike Yemen and Iran without relying on bases in the Middle East, reports
The Times of Israel.
In addition to bombers, the US Navy is expanding its presence in the region: the USS Harry S. Truman has already struck Houthi positions in Yemen, and the USS Carl Vinson is heading to the region.
US President Donald Trump has threatened the Houthis with “real hell” if they do not stop attacking international shipping in the Red Sea. At the same time, he warned Iran, calling on Tehran to stop supporting the group, otherwise the consequences would be “very serious”.
The conflict over Yemen remains one of the key points of global instability. The Houthis, backed by Iran, are part of the so-called “axis of resistance” that opposes the United States, Israel and Western allies. Washington, for its part, is tightening sanctions against Tehran and pursuing a policy of “maximum pressure” in an effort to force Iran to new negotiations on its nuclear programme.
Meanwhile, Iran refuses to have direct contacts with the US administration, agreeing only to mediation talks. Escalating tensions could lead to further military clashes in the region.
