US intends to deploy additional combat aircraft to Mideast
Illustrative photo: The United States may deploy additional aircraft to the Middle East (Getty Images)
The United States plans to send additional warplanes to the Middle East in response to Iran's threats to attack Israel, reports The New York Times.
An unnamed US official told the media that US forces in the Middle East are taking “necessary measures” to increase combat capability and protect US troops and allies from any threats from Iran or Iranian-backed groups.
According to the NYT, the US has not yet decided on how many aircraft will be deployed to the Middle East. Besides, top Pentagon officials have not yet fully approved such a deployment, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
The United States wants to "send enough of the right types of aircraft as quickly as possible ” to help protect Israel without making the impression of escalating the conflict, the article says.
Background
In April, Iran launched a massive attack on Israel using more than 300 drones and missiles. At the time, only a small number of missiles and drones reached their targets.
Fighter jets from the United States, France, Britain, and Jordan helped Israel repel the attack. They shot down more than 80 drones.
Tensions between Israel and Iran increased after Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran. According to media reports, he was blown up in a guest house.
Iran immediately accused Israel of the attack. According to the NYT, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei ordered his troops to launch a missile strike against Israel.
