WSJ: US deploys largest air group to Middle East since 2003

The United States is deploying additional aircraft to the Middle East, expanding its regional presence to its largest level since the 2003 invasion of Iraq, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing sources.

According to the newspaper, Washington is sending F-35 and F-22 fighter jets to the region. An aircraft carrier equipped with strike aircraft and electronic warfare systems is also en route. In addition, U.S. command-and-control aircraft have been dispatched to the Middle East. Sources noted that such a force posture would enable the United States to conduct a sustained operation against Iran, rather than a one-off strike.

According to WSJ sources, the U.S. armed forces are prepared to carry out strikes on Iranian territory. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision.

By Vugar Khalilov