The United States continues to send additional military equipment to the Middle East as it battles Iran-backed Houthi rebels who have been attacking commercial ships in the Red Sea. According to congressional sources, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has sent an additional air force squadron of F-35 fighter jets to Jordan, a strategic partner in the region. While Jordan has been wary of hosting U.S. military equipment, the move sends a strong defensive message against tensions in the region.
F-35 Aircraft and B-2 Bombers
F-35A fighter jets stand out with their stealth capabilities and advanced sensors. Among the Air Force's most advanced fighter jets, the F-35s are capable of carrying air-to-air and air-to-ground guided weapons. The Pentagon has activated these fighter jets and other advanced technological systems to ensure security in the region.
The number of B-2 Spirit stealth bombers sent to the region has also increased. The Air Force has strengthened its military presence in the region by stationing the aircraft at the US base in Diego Garcia. While only half of the B-2s are currently operational, the Pentagon plans to use the aircraft as a deterrent to threats in the region.
Patriot and THAAD Defense Systems
The US has also diverted some of its rare air defense systems from South Korea to the Middle East, including two Patriot batteries and a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery. These defenses are intended to protect American personnel and infrastructure in the region. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stressed that the US is determined to respond if Iran and its proxies pose a threat to American interests in the region.
Ongoing Attacks Against Houthi Rebels
The US continues its airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen. The Houthi rebels have become one of the most resilient elements of Iran’s proxy networks in the region, especially over the past year, which has led the US to intensify its attacks. The US has dealt significant blows, targeting more than 100 Houthi command centers, stockpiles, launch sites and leaders. However, despite these strikes, the Houthi rebels continue their attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea.
Message to Iran
The US military deployment in the region is seen as a strong message to Iran. President Donald Trump has called on Tehran in recent weeks to end its support for the Houthis, warning of further retaliation if it does not. “The Houthis have a clear choice: Stop firing at US ships, and we will stop firing at you. Otherwise, we have only just begun and the real pain is yet to come,” Trump said in a statement on Truth Social.
The U.S. military presence in the region is a clear warning to Iran and other powers that continue to support the Houthi rebels.
