The US is increasing its deployment of fighter jets in the strategic Strait of Hormuz to protect ships from potential Iranian seizures, a senior defense official revealed on Friday.
The US has growing concerns about the deepening ties between Iran, Russia, and Syria across the Middle East, prompting the reinforcement of military assets in the region.
In a briefing with Pentagon reporters, the official announced that F-16 fighter jets will be sent to the Gulf region over the weekend to enhance the presence of A-10 attack aircraft that have been conducting patrols for over a week.
This move follows Iran’s recent attempt to seize two oil tankers near the strait, with one of them being fired upon.
The defense official, speaking anonymously to provide operational details, stated that the deployment of F-16s aims to provide air cover to ships navigating through the waterway and increase the US military’s visibility as a deterrent to Iran. The US Navy reported that in both incidents, the Iranian naval vessels retreated upon the arrival of the USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer.
Additionally, the official disclosed that the US is considering various military options to address the escalating Russian aggression in Syrian airspace, which has complicated efforts to target a leader of the Daesh group.
While not revealing specific details, the official emphasized that the US will not relinquish any territory and will continue conducting anti-Islamic State missions in the western part of the country.
According to the official, the increased military activity by Russia, which has grown in frequency and aggression since March, is a result of heightened cooperation and coordination between Moscow, Tehran, and the Syrian government.
Their collective objective is to exert pressure on the US to withdraw from Syria, as noted by the official.
