With the arrival of the B-52 and Tripoli, Washington encircles Tehran with its strike force.
With the arrival of the B-52 and Tripoli, Washington encircles Tehran with its strike force.
2026-03-29 02:42
Shafaq News – Middle East
Two new US Air Force B-52 bombers landed on Sunday at RAF Fairford, bringing the number of bombers at the base to 23.
These moves indicate that the United States is working to enhance its long-range strike capabilities within a range that extends to Iran, amid escalating regional tensions.
RAF Fairford, located in Gloucestershire in southwest England, is a launching point for long-range air operations.
In this context, the US Central Command announced the arrival of the amphibious landing ship USS Tripoli in the Middle East, in a move that strengthens the US military presence in the region.
The command stated in a post on the “X” platform that the “America” class ship represents the flagship of the “Tripoli” amphibious combat group of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which includes about 3,500 sailors and marines, along with transport aircraft, attack fighters and tactical landing craft.
The Wall Street Journal had previously reported, citing US officials, that the Japan-based ship “Tripoli” was heading to the Middle East, amid speculation that this was related to a possible operation targeting Iran’s Kharg Island, a major maritime hub and vital oil infrastructure facility in the Gulf.
Earlier, the Washington Post, citing US officials, revealed that the US Department of Defense (the Pentagon) is preparing for weeks of ground operations in Iran, with thousands of US soldiers and Marines arriving in the region.
Officials indicated that the military plans being developed are “highly sensitive” and may not amount to a full-scale invasion, but may be limited to joint operations carried out by special operations forces and infantry units.
According to the newspaper, the implementation of these plans remains contingent on the decision of US President Donald Trump, who has not yet decided whether to approve them fully or partially.
shafaq.com
