The United States has announced the deployment of additional fighter jets near the strategic Strait of Hormuz to safeguard ships from potential Iranian seizures, a senior US defence official revealed. The move comes after Iran’s attempted seizure of two oil tankers near the strait last week.
According to the Associated Press (AP) news agency, the defence official, speaking to Pentagon reporters on Friday on the condition of anonymity, stated that F-16 fighter jets will be sent to the Gulf region over the weekend. These aircraft will augment the A-10 attack aircraft that have been patrolling the area for more than a week. The deployment of F-16s aims to provide air cover for ships navigating through the waterway and increase the US military’s presence as a deterrent against Iran.
The US Navy reported that Iranian naval vessels retreated in two recent incidents upon the arrival of the USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer. This highlights the significance of bolstering military assets to ensure the safety and security of ships in the region.
In addition to the developments in the Strait of Hormuz, the defence official also addressed the increasing Russian aggression in Syrian airspace. The official mentioned that the US is evaluating various military options to counter the escalating Russian activities, particularly in the western part of Syria, where US forces are conducting operations against ISIS fighters. The US remains committed to its objectives and will not yield any territory.
The defence official emphasized that the recent surge in Russian military activity stems from heightened collaboration between Moscow, Tehran, and the Syrian government. The three entities are exerting pressure on the US to withdraw from Syria. The official cited a recent incident in which a Russian aircraft, identified as an An-30, conducted multiple flights over the al-Tanf garrison in eastern Syria. The US forces present at the base did not take direct action against the Russian flight.
Currently, there are approximately 900 US forces deployed in Syria, with additional personnel rotating in and out to carry out missions targeting ISIS. The US remains committed to its operations in Syria and is closely monitoring Russian activities while assessing appropriate responses.
More news from United Kingdom
