US Deploys F-15 Fighter Jets to Middle East

The United States has deployed additional military capabilities to the Middle East, with F-15 fighter jets arriving in the region on Thursday, marking the latest move in Washington's strategy to signal deterrence to Iran.

This follows a warning from the Pentagon last week that it would bolster its military presence in response to escalating tensions.

The US military confirmed that the F-15s, which are typically based in the United Kingdom, have now joined the US Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility in the Middle East.

This deployment comes on the heels of the Pentagon's announcement that additional military assets, including bombers, fighter jets, tanker aircraft, and air defense ships, would be sent to the region.

The Pentagon has made it clear that any hostile actions from Iran, its partners, or proxy groups against American personnel or interests will trigger a decisive response.

"If Iran or its allies exploit this moment to target US personnel or interests, the United States will take all necessary steps to defend itself," the Pentagon warned in its statement.

This military escalation occurs amidst ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, raising concerns over further destabilization in the region.

In addition to the growing US military presence, Iran has taken a more active role in the conflict.

Earlier this year, Iran launched two missile strikes on Israeli targets — one in April following an Israeli airstrike on its consulate in Damascus, and another in October, reportedly in retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.