US military forces have launched intense attacks on Iran for the 13th consecutive night, amid concerns within America’s armed forces that President Donald Trump may escalate the conflict over the weekend.
Throughout the week, the US has bolstered its military presence in the region by deploying additional squadrons of fighter planes, defensive batteries, and extra weaponry. Special Forces have been airlifted into the area, and on Friday, at least 10 KC-135R Stratotankers made stops at Israeli bases for refueling.
These sizable warplanes are crucial for risky air-to-air refueling operations for US air force and navy fighter bombers on extended missions. Two B-1B Lancer strategic bombers flew from RAF Fairford to an undisclosed location in preparation for a potential major assault on Iran. A significant number of medics have also been positioned to handle potential casualties if a full-scale war erupts.
These developments followed threats from the Iranian government against Fairford for hosting the B1 Bombers, alleging they were launched from the Gloucestershire base. President Trump has signaled a possible significant escalation of the conflict over the weekend, with sources indicating a high likelihood of such action.
There is a growing concern that Trump may escalate the situation, potentially involving a ground incursion. Both Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth faced criticism for a lack of clear mission objectives and strategy. Despite no change in Iran’s stance, Trump might pursue escalation to divert attention from other issues, while Hegseth seems focused on showcasing US military might.
One potential scenario is the US occupation of Kharg Island off Iran’s coast, strategically positioned to control ship safety in the Strait of Hormuz. However, such a move would demand a large invasion force of US Marines, vehicles, helicopters, and transport planes. The alert for an impending attack rose as Iran’s proxy forces in the region became more engaged in the conflict.
Pro-Iranian Iraqi militia group Awliya al-Dam claimed attacks on Jordan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, while the Houthis increased threats to shipping in the Red Sea. Israel is on high alert following Mossad’s thwarting of an Iranian plot to send proxy operatives into the country to assassinate senior officials. Israeli intelligence suggests Iran is now using criminal proxies for foreign attacks. According to Mossad, Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) orchestrated the failed plot.