WASHINGTON – The United States has repositioned certain aircraft and naval vessels stationed in the Middle East to minimize their exposure to potential Iranian retaliation, according to two U.S. defense officials who spoke to Reuters on Wednesday.
The precautionary redeployment comes as President Donald Trump remains non-committal about possible American involvement in Israel’s ongoing strikes on Iranian nuclear and missile infrastructure. The Israeli campaign has now entered its sixth day, prompting an exodus from Tehran as fears of escalation grow.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized that the adjustments were focused on protecting U.S. military personnel and assets in the region. They declined to disclose the number or exact destinations of the relocated assets.
One source revealed that aircraft housed outside fortified shelters at Al Udeid Air Base had been flown out, while naval units were withdrawn from the U.S. 5th Fleet’s base in Bahrain.
“This is standard operational procedure,” the official noted. “Our foremost concern is the security of our forces.”
Additionally, a U.S. aircraft carrier currently stationed in the Indo-Pacific region has been ordered to proceed toward the Middle East, signaling Washington’s readiness to reinforce its presence if needed.
