The United States is enhancing its utilization of fighter jets in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz to safeguard ships against potential Iranian seizures, according to a senior defense official. The growing ties between Iran, Russia, and Syria in the Middle East have raised concerns among US officials. In order to provide more protection, F-16 fighter jets will be sent to the Gulf region to supplement the A-10 attack aircraft that have been conducting patrols there. This decision comes after Iran’s recent attempt to seize two oil tankers near the strait, even opening fire on one of them.
The defense official, speaking anonymously, stated that the deployment of F-16s will offer air cover for ships passing through the waterway and increase the military’s presence in the area as a deterrent to Iran. The US Navy has reported that Iranian naval vessels retreated upon the arrival of the USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer, in both instances.
Furthermore, the defense official revealed that the US is currently assessing various military options to address the escalating Russian aggression in Syrian airspace. These actions have complicated efforts to target an Islamic State group leader. Although the official chose not to elaborate on the options being considered, they emphasized that the US will not surrender any territory and will continue anti-Islamic State missions in the western part of Syria.
The increase in Russian military activity from March onwards is a result of closer cooperation and coordination among Moscow, Tehran, and the Syrian government. The ultimate goal is to exert pressure on the US to withdraw troops from Syria. Russia’s dependency on Iran’s support in the Ukrainian conflict, coupled with Iran’s desire for the US to exit Syria, makes it easier for them to provide aid to Lebanese Hezbollah and pose a threat to Israel. The official disclosed that mid-level Russian and Iranian Quds force leaders in Syria have been collaborating extensively, sharing plans, and intelligence to increase pressure on the US.
Currently, there are approximately 900 US forces in Syria, with additional troops entering and exiting the country for missions targeting Islamic State group militants.
While the US does not believe that Russian aircraft intend to attack US troops or shoot down manned aircraft, concerns have been raised about Russian pilots targeting unmanned Reaper drones. The official cited an incident in March where a Russian warplane spilled jet fuel on a US surveillance drone, damaging its propeller and forcing it to land in the Black Sea. Tensions between the two countries escalated due to the incident, leading to a phone call between their defense chiefs. However, no direct military response followed.
According to Rear Adm. Oleg Gurinov, head of the Russian Reconciliation Center for Syria, joint training exercises have been conducted by Russian and Syrian militaries. He expressed concern about drone flights carried out by the US-led coalition in northern Syria, considering them to be violations of protocols designed to prevent clashes between the two militaries.
To prevent unintended clashes in Syria, US and Russian military commanders maintain routine communication through a deconfliction phone line. This communication is a longstanding practice to ensure the safety and security of both sides, as they have troops on the ground and in the air. Although this line of communication helps to avoid conflicts, heated debates often arise when commanders disagree over ongoing operations. The official mentioned instances where the Russians claim a restricted operating zone for military exercises, while the US asserts its mission against the Islamic State group in the same area. These disagreements can become quite contentious as both sides vehemently defend their positions.
The most recent incident involved a Russian aircraft repeatedly flying over the at-Tanf garrison in eastern Syria, where US forces train Syrian allies and monitor Islamic State activities. The Russian An-30 aircraft was collecting intelligence on the base, but the US did not take any direct action against the flight.
In conclusion, the US is taking measures to protect ships in the Strait of Hormuz by deploying additional fighter jets. The growing cooperation between Iran, Russia, and Syria is a cause for concern, and the US is considering military options to address the escalating Russian aggression in Syrian airspace. While tensions persist, routine communication between US and Russian military commanders aims to prevent unintended clashes in Syria.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
