WSJ: US deploys F-15Es, air defence systems to Middle East amid tensions with Iran

The U.S. Department of Defense has begun deploying fighter jets to the Middle East amid ongoing tensions with Iran.

President Donald Trump continues to build up forces in the region, considering the possibility of striking Iran, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing sources.

According to the WSJ, on January 18, F-15E fighter jets arrived in Jordan. In addition, additional air defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD missile systems, will be delivered to the region to counter possible retaliatory strikes from Iran.

This escalation stems from President Donald Trump's ongoing consideration of military options against Iran, tied to Tehran's brutal crackdown on nationwide anti-regime protests, which have been ongoing for weeks. The death toll from the unrest is put in the thousands, and mass detentions.

Trump has repeatedly threatened action—calling protesters "Iranian patriots," promising "help is on its way," and pressing advisers for "decisive" options (including potential regime-change strikes or targeted actions against leadership like Ayatollah Khamenei)—while also noting recent pauses in executions following U.S. pressure. He has not ruled out strikes but has backed away from immediate action after being advised of risks like prolonged conflict or insufficient regional assets.

By Khagan Isayev