Amid Tensions with Iran, US Amasses Military Force in the Middle East

Moscow (ANTARA) - Amid tensions with Iran, the United States has amassed military forces in the Middle East comprising 16 warships with a total of 40,000 personnel and seven air squadrons, each consisting of 70 fighter jets.

According to a Financial Times report, the United States has stationed five air squadrons — each with 70 fighter jets — at its military bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Meanwhile, an additional two air squadrons are based on the aircraft carriers USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford, the Financial Times reported.

Citing data from Tel Aviv University, the Financial Times reported that at the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, there are already 66 US fighter jets, including 18 F-35 fighters and 17 F-15 units.

Additionally, there are eight A-10 aircraft, EA-18 electronic warfare aircraft, and transport planes.

Satellite data also indicated an increase in the number of US fighter jets deployed at its military base in Saudi Arabia.

Previously, US President Donald Trump stated that a “grand fleet” was sailing towards Iran, whilst expressing hope that Iran would agree to negotiate a fair deal encompassing the total elimination of nuclear weapons.

Meanwhile, on 8 February, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed that Iran must retain its right to enrich uranium, even if it were to lead to war.

Source: Sputnik/RIA Novosti-OANA