The Pentagon is ramping up its military presence in the Middle East as hostilities intensify between Israel and Iran, according to a report by Fox News.
A U.S. official revealed on Tuesday that, in addition to deploying more fighter jets to the region, the Pentagon is extending the stay of advanced aircraft—including F-16s, F-22s, and F-35s—already stationed in the area. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed on Monday that additional military assets had been sent to the region, describing the move as “defensive” amid rising speculation that U.S. forces could become involved in Israel’s military operations.
A separate defense official told Anadolu that Hegseth has also ordered the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group to enter the CENTCOM area of responsibility. The deployment aims to maintain a strong defensive posture and protect American personnel across the region.
Tensions have soared since Friday, when Israel launched airstrikes on several Iranian targets, including military and nuclear facilities. In response, Tehran carried out retaliatory missile strikes.
The violence has resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. Iranian authorities reported at least 224 people killed and over 1,000 injured in Israeli attacks, while Israeli officials confirmed 24 deaths and hundreds more wounded following Iran’s retaliation.
