The United States has deployed F-22 Raptor fighter jets to Israel for the first time. The move comes as tensions with Iran continue to grow. The report was first published by The Wall Street Journal.
The stealth jets will operate from Israeli air bases. They will help defend Israeli territory and US forces in the region. Former US official Dennis Ross said this marks a historic shift in military posture.
The deployment follows refusals by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to allow US forces to use their airspace. Analysts say this limited Washington’s options for a large operation. Elliott Abrams, a former Iran envoy, said the move reflects deeper US-Israel cooperation.
The jets were tracked leaving RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom before arriving in Israel. Israeli officials believe a US strike on Iran may be unavoidable. Senior military leaders from both countries remain in close contact.
Israel’s reassignment to US Central Command in 2021 strengthened operational ties. That change followed the Abraham Accords.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump warned that Iran is developing long-range missiles. He said the US prefers diplomacy but will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.
