America Deploys Largest Air Force in the Middle East Since Iraq Invasion to Counter Iran

The Wall Street Journal reported that the United States is transferring advanced F-35 and F-22 fighter jets to the Middle East, along with command and control aircraft and logistical support, as part of its largest air deployment in the region since the Iraq invasion in 2003. The naval reinforcements are accompanied by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and a destroyer, as well as forces capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, in addition to the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier heading with its strike group.

Trump's Military Options

Officials indicate that Washington is now capable of an extended air campaign targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and ballistic missiles, or even political and military leaders, should diplomatic negotiations with Tehran fail.

The Diplomatic Context

Talks between American and Iranian officials in Geneva regarding uranium enrichment and missile programs have made limited progress, while Washington expects Iran to seek to buy time through negotiations, keeping the military option on the table.

American Technological Superiority

Stealth aircraft and precision munitions provide the United States with a qualitative advantage, especially after Iranian air defenses were damaged due to Israeli strikes last year.