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Nuclear-Capable US Bombers Arrive in Middle East as Tensions Escalate
The deployment of US nuclear-capable bombers to the Middle East underscores increasing tensions and highlights a reinforced military presence in the region.
The Pentagon has announced plans to deploy additional US military forces to the Middle East, which will include several nuclear-capable B-52H strategic bombers.
According to a statement by Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reportedly ordered the deployment in response to the planned departure of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group from the area.
He stated on Friday that in addition to “several” B-52H bombers, the assets also consist of “additional ballistic missile defense destroyers, a fighter squadron, and tanker aircraft.” Ryder mentioned that these forces are expected to arrive “in the coming months,” but he did not provide an exact timeline.
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The forthcoming deployment is intended to demonstrate Washington’s dedication to the “defense of Israel” and its commitment to “de-escalation through deterrence and diplomacy.” The Pentagon made it clear that this action, along with its recent decision to deploy the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system in Israel, targets Tehran.
The spokesperson emphasized that Secretary Austin has consistently stated that if Iran, its allies, or proxies seize this opportunity to attack American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take all necessary actions to protect our citizens.
The announcement coincides with escalating tensions in the Middle East, where Iran and Israel are caught in an ongoing cycle of violence. Most recently, Israel launched several strikes against Iran last Saturday following a missile attack by Iran on Israeli territory earlier this October. That missile strike was claimed to be retaliation for a series of high-profile assassinations that have been attributed to Israel.