The Pentagon said in a statement that deployments would take place in the coming months and demonstrated the flexibility of the U.S. military movements around the world.
“Should Iran, its partners, or its proxies use this moment to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take every measure necessary to defend our people,” Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder said in a statement.
The United States has had as many as two aircraft carriers in the Middle East during the past year of soaring tensions since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Oct. 2023.
The Lincoln’s withdrawal will create an aircraft carrier gap until another is cycled into the Middle East.
The latest adjustment in U.S. forces in the region follows direct exchanges of fire in October between Israel and Iran. Israel is also fighting Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon and has carried out strikes in Yemen after coming under attack from Iran-aligned Houthi fighters.
The United States has pledged to help defend Israel against the attack and to safeguard U.S. forces in the Middle East, which Iran-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and off the coast of Yemen have attacked.
What are B-52 bombers?
The B-52 Stratofortress is a long-range, subsonic, jet-powered strategic bomber designed and built by Boeing.
It has been in service with the United States Air Force (USAF) since the 1950s.
Originally designed as a nuclear bomber during the Cold War, the B-52 has been extensively modified and upgraded over the years, allowing it to carry a wide variety of conventional and nuclear weapons.
It is known for its long-range, large payload capacity, and ability to fly at high altitudes.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.