The United States has decided to deploy additional F-16 and F-35 fighter jets from Europe to the Middle East, according to American officials cited by The New York Times, Report informs.
US Air Force F-16 fighters stationed in Germany, as well as stealth F-35 aircraft based in the United Kingdom, have already been dispatched to the region. Additionally, the US is deploying extra aerial refueling tankers.
The newspaper notes that these measures serve as another indication that the administration of US President Donald Trump may soon intensify strikes against Iran.
However, it has not yet been specified exactly where the additional combat aircraft will be based. Part of the US refueling tanker fleet is expected to be stationed at airbases in Israel.
The US and Israel launched a military operation against Iran on February 28. In June, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding providing for an immediate cessation of hostilities across all fronts, including in Lebanon. However, on the night of July 8, the US resumed large-scale strikes against Iran, accusing Tehran of violating the terms of the agreement regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
