US to deploy F-16 fighter jets to safeguard ships from Iranian seizures in middle east
AP, a high-ranking defence official revealed on Friday that the US is bolstering its efforts to safeguard ships from potential Iranian aggression. The official further emphasized the mounting apprehension regarding the strengthening alliances between Iran, Russia, and Syria across the Middle East.
During a briefing with Pentagon reporters, a senior defense official disclosed that the United States plans to dispatch F-16 fighter jets to the Gulf region over the upcoming weekend as an augmentation to the A-10 attack aircraft that have been conducting patrols for over a week. The decision follows a recent incident in which Iran attempted to seize two oil tankers in close proximity to the strait, with one of the vessels coming under fire.
Requesting anonymity to disclose operational specifics in the region, the defence official affirmed that the deployment of F-16 fighter jets aims to provide air cover for ships transiting through the waterway, while simultaneously enhancing the military's presence in the area as a deterrent against Iran. The official also noted that this move would increase visibility and surveillance capabilities in the region.
According to the US Navy, on both occasions when Iranian naval vessels attempted to seize ships, their actions were halted when the USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer, promptly arrived at the scene. Furthermore, the defence official informed reporters that the United States is evaluating various military options to address the growing instances of Russian aggression in Syrian airspace, AP reported.
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