Washington:The United States has reportedly increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying ten military cargo planes to Israeli air bases amid potential plans for a strike against Iran. These aircraft have landed at Ovda and Nevatim air bases in the southern Negev region, as reported by the Israeli public broadcaster KAN.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, additional US military planes have also been sent to bases in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. These planes originated from Fort Bliss, Texas, which is home to significant US military air defense facilities, including those associated with interceptor missiles and air defense batteries. However, there is no immediate confirmation from the US regarding these deployments, and the specific cargo remains unspecified.
An unnamed Israeli official mentioned that Israel and the US are closely coordinating their military preparations, although no decision has been made about a possible strike. The coordination is in anticipation of any decision by President Donald Trump. Earlier reports from KAN also indicated that the US had warned Gulf countries about a potential short, limited military campaign against Iran.
The US has transferred a Patriot missile defense system from Texas to the Gulf region to bolster air defenses. Additionally, US troops across the region have been advised to leave as a precaution against potential military escalation. Reinforcements, including an aircraft carrier and a Marine Corps unit, are expected to join around 20 US warships already operating in the Middle East by November.
The Wall Street Journal reported that US Central Command Commander Gen. Brad Cooper had briefed President Trump on potential strike options against Iran, suggesting a possible move toward major military operations. Democratic US Sen. Chris Murphy, after a briefing on the plans, criticized them as 'insane,' warning of a potentially devastating escalation.
Tensions remain high as the US and Israel previously launched attacks against Iran in February, leading to retaliations and a ceasefire agreement in April. However, a memorandum of understanding signed in June concerning navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains stalled due to security disagreements. The recent military activities have heightened concerns over renewed escalation between the US and Iran.