US Air Force strengthens presence in Middle East amid rising tensions

Since March 29, the US Air Force has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying additional A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft from the 124th Fighter Wing, based in Idaho.

This new deployment includes approximately 300 personnel who will operate under US Central Command (CENTCOM) in response to growing regional tensions, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

Major General Tim Donnellan, commander of the Idaho National Guard, highlighted the importance of the deployment, emphasizing the readiness and discipline of the 124th Fighter Wing. "Discipline, preparedness, and perseverance underpin the lethality these warriors bring to the war fight," Donnellan said.

"The 124th has a legacy of service to our state and nation, and this mission further cements our commitment to protecting the United States of America and securing our interests around the globe."

The 124th Fighter Wing has a well-established history of supporting US military operations in the Middle East. The unit has previously participated in operations such as Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Southern Watch, and Operation Inherent Resolve, where it played a key role in the fight against ISIS. In 2020, the wing was deployed as part of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, the final phase of the US mission in Afghanistan.

The timing of the A-10 deployment coincides with rising tensions between the US and Iran. The US has expressed concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with Washington continuing to push for a new nuclear agreement. Recently, President Donald Trump reiterated the US position, threatening military action if a deal is not reached. "If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing," Trump stated, also hinting at the use of economic measures like tariffs.

In addition to the A-10s, the US Air Force has positioned B-2 bombers at Diego Garcia Air Base, providing a strategic platform for potential strikes against Iranian targets. Satellite imagery confirmed the presence of these bombers, which would be capable of launching strikes on Iranian sites if tensions escalate further.

Meanwhile, US naval assets, including the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, have been deployed to the region to bolster efforts against threats posed by Houthi rebels. These rebels, operating from Yemen, have been targeting maritime traffic linked to Israel, prompting US military responses.

As the situation continues to evolve, the US military’s enhanced presence in the Middle East underscores its readiness to address a range of security challenges in the region.

By Vafa Guliyeva