In a strategic move, the United States this week reinforced its military presence in the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran ✈️.
More than a dozen F-15E Strike Eagle jets took off from the UK on January 18, escorted by C-17 Globemaster III transports, according to open-source flight tracking data. On January 20, U.S. Central Command confirmed the arrival of three F-15E squadrons in the region.
Officials also expect F-16 fighter jets and A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft to join the deployment in the coming days, increasing the U.S. air power footprint.
Meanwhile, the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is sailing toward the area. Maritime tracking shows the carrier transited the Strait of Malacca with its transponder off on January 20, a move that caught observers' attention 🛳️.
In Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a warning on Wednesday, vowing that any new attack would be met with a "firm response," while leaving the door open for a "fair agreement" and calling for mutual respect in talks.
Analysts say the deployments aim to deter potential aggression and reassure allies in the Gulf, as both sides keep a close eye on each other’s next steps. For now, the region braces for what could be a tense standoff in 2026.
What happens next? Stay tuned as we keep you updated. 🤔
Reference(s):
U.S. steps up military presence in Middle East amid tensions with Iran
cgtn.com
