The United States has announced military exercises in the Middle East. They come amid rising tensions with Iran and speculation about possible new strikes on Tehran.
The exact dates, locations, and composition of the American units involved in the exercises have not been disclosed.
Earlier on Monday, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the arrival of a large naval group in the region, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. The aircraft carrier is carrying dozens of combat aircraft and about 5,000 sailors. The strike group is accompanied by several guided-missile squadrons, equipped with air defenses and providing security for the aircraft carrier.
According to The Washington Post, the US has also deployed a squadron of F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets to the region, belonging to the same unit that participated in the strikes against Iran in April 2024. The UK has also sent Typhoon fighter jets to the Middle East for “defensive purposes.”
The announcement of the exercises came against the backdrop of a continued crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Iran, with thousands of deaths and numerous arrests, with the fate of those arrested unknown. In this situation, the White House has not ruled out new strikes against Tehran.
