ALBAWABA - Last weekend, the escalating tensions that had the Middle East on edge suddenly eased. Even with the U.S. expanding its military presence across the region and signaling a readiness to confront Iran, a direct attack hasn't happened.
The Wall Street Journal's reporting indicates that this pause isn't solely about diplomatic efforts or regional negotiations. It's tied to military evaluations being conducted within the Pentagon.
The report further notes that U.S. forces have already started positioning the naval and air assets that President Donald Trump had promised. This includes the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and advanced F-35 fighter jets, which are now closer to the Middle East. Despite the situation worsening, U.S. officials told the paper that immediate airstrikes against Iran weren't on the table.
The primary reason, they said, is Washington's current priority: shoring up air defenses for both Israel and American forces, in anticipation of a potential Iranian reaction. Pentagon planners believe that any major or decisive attack would almost certainly provoke a retaliatory strike from Tehran, possibly triggering a protracted conflict.
While the U.S. military can carry out limited strikes quickly, a larger operation would require additional protective measures. As a result, the Pentagon is sending more missile defense systems to the region. These include THAAD batteries, designed to intercept ballistic missiles at high altitudes, and Patriot systems, which are meant to counter lower-level threats.
American warships stationed nearby are equipped with advanced interception systems. Still, officials deem the enhanced air defense network essential before any possible escalation.
Susan Maloney, a former U.S. State Department official, told the Journal that air defense readiness is the primary worry. She stressed the need for Washington to protect its personnel, allies, and critical assets from Iranian retaliation.
The significance of these preparations was underscored during the 12-day conflict in June, when the United States helped Israel fend off a barrage of missile strikes. Analysts think the lessons gleaned from that conflict continue to shape Washington's current approach.
