US Deploys F-35s to Middle East Amid Escalating Tensions with Iran

Washington (ANTARA) - The United States has deployed fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets, along with F-16 fighters, from Europe to the Middle East amid escalating conflict with Iran, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal.

The F-16 fighters were dispatched from Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, while the F-35s were relocated from RAF Lakenheath in England, the newspaper reported.

According to the publication, tanker aircraft were also deployed to the region.

On the night before 18 June, Tehran and Washington signed a memorandum aimed at ending the conflict that began on 28 February.

However, since 8 July, the US military has carried out several attacks against Iran. US Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed the strikes were retaliation for Iranian actions against commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

The Iranian military responded by attacking US bases in several Middle Eastern countries.

Tehran has also accused Washington of violating the ceasefire memorandum. On 9 July, US President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire no longer in effect.