The United States is significantly ramping up its military presence in the Middle East, evidenced by the extended deployment of the USS Harry S Truman carrier strike group in the Red Sea and the arrival of additional military assets. Notably, at least five B-2 stealth bombers have been dispatched to Diego Garcia, a British military base utilized by the US in the Indian Ocean, with reports indicating more aircraft may be on their way.
In addition to the B-2s, seven C-17 aircraft have been tracked landing at Diego Garcia, suggesting the transportation of personnel, equipment, and supplies, while refueling aircraft have been repositioned to strategic locations throughout the region.
The Pentagon recently ordered a one-month extension for the USS Harry S Truman strike group’s deployment. Meanwhile, the USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group is also en route to the Middle East, augmenting the military presence with supporting vessels, including destroyers. This unusual surge in military assets could signify the US’s intentions to conduct substantial strikes on Houthi forces in Yemen and send a clear message to Iran.
The Houthis, an Islamist group controlling significant portions of Yemen, including the capital Sana’a, have repeatedly targeted shipping in the Red Sea and launched attacks on Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While their attacks ceased during a recent ceasefire, they have resumed following the renewal of Israeli military operations.
In recent weeks, the Houthis have threatened to strike Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport and have launched ballistic missiles towards Israel almost daily, prompting air raid sirens in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. They claimed to have sent drones into Israel on Tuesday night, although the Israeli military has not confirmed these reports.
The Trump administration previously conducted operations against the Houthis to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, a vital waterway for global trade connected to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal.
Furthermore, a recent security incident occurred when a journalist was mistakenly included in discussions among senior US officials regarding military strategies on Signal.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed the commitment to continue strikes against the Houthis for as long as necessary, while President Trump warned Iran of potential military action against its nuclear facilities should Tehran refuse to engage in talks.
Credit: Sky News
