US Reinforces Middle East Deployment with Additional F-16 and F-35 Fighter Jets
- 19 hours ago
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WASHINGTON, July 20, Saudi Arabia Breaking News — The United States plans to deploy additional fighter aircraft and aerial refuelling tankers to the Middle East as tensions with Iran intensify, according to a US official.
Additional F-16 and F-35 fighter jets are expected to be transferred from bases in Europe, alongside more aerial refuelling aircraft.
Dozens of US refuelling tankers have arrived in Israel in recent days, with further aircraft still expected, an Israeli source said. The number of tankers in the region had fallen from approximately 94 during military operations in March to 40 before beginning to increase again last week.
The reinforcements could broaden the military options available to US President Donald Trump as his administration considers its next steps in the escalating conflict.
Trump received a Situation Room briefing last week on options for intensifying military operations. Potential courses of action under consideration have included attempting to capture Kharg Island, a major Iranian oil export hub, or striking nuclear facilities at Pickaxe Mountain.
The president has not ruled out pursuing a diplomatic solution. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said overnight that the possibility of returning to negotiations remained open.
