U.S. Deploys More Fighter Jets to Middle East as Israel–Iran Conflict Intensifies

U.S. Air Force F-16 "Falcon" fighter jet takes off at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, U.S., October 3, 2024. REUTERS/Tom Brenner

June 18, 2025 | Washington (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The United States is expanding its military presence in the Middle East, deploying additional fighter jets and extending current air force missions as the conflict between Israel and Iran escalates, U.S. officials confirmed on Tuesday.

According to three U.S. defense officials, the new deployments include F-16, F-22, and F-35 fighter aircraft. Two of the officials emphasized that the buildup is intended strictly for defensive purposes, including protection against drone and projectile attacks.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the deployments aim to safeguard American forces in the region from possible retaliation by Iran and its regional allies, as tensions continue to rise in the wake of Israel’s large-scale air campaign against Iran.

The Pentagon has not yet issued an official public statement regarding the latest fighter jet movements. However, Reuters earlier reported on Monday that the U.S. had already transferred a significant number of tanker aircraft to Europe and deployed a carrier strike group to the Middle East, reinforcing U.S. capabilities and providing strategic options to President Donald Trump.

A fourth defense official also suggested that additional U.S. Navy warships capable of intercepting ballistic missiles could be sent to the Eastern Mediterranean, although no final decision has been announced.

The U.S. currently maintains a military presence of approximately 40,000 troops in the region, equipped with air defense systems, warships, and combat aircraft, forming a critical deterrent posture amid rapidly unfolding developments.

The situation follows Israel’s announcement that it had launched its largest-ever air campaign against Iran on Friday, citing intelligence that Tehran was close to acquiring a nuclear weapon. Iran, in response, has denied any intent to develop nuclear arms, stating that its enrichment program remains within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and is geared toward peaceful civilian energy use.

The growing hostilities have raised global alarm about the possibility of a broader regional war and the safety of military and civilian assets across the Middle East. The U.S. military presence is being reinforced amid concerns over Iranian-backed groups potentially opening new fronts.

Saudi Arabia Breaking News will continue to monitor and report on all verified updates as the situation develops.