The US Department of Defense is considering options for establishing new American military facilities in Israel as part of a broader review of the deployment of US troops and military infrastructure, according to a report by The New York Times.
The review comes amid growing concerns over Iran-related threats and the possibility that US military bases supporting American operations in the Middle East could come under attack.
According to the report, the Pentagon is examining several options, particularly in Israel. Any decision to establish new permanent facilities could require approval from the US Congress, while constructing or developing new bases could take several years.
CENTCOM reviews regional military posture
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) is reportedly already examining ways to reposition existing military assets and restructure the deployment of American forces in the region rather than waiting for new facilities to be built.
The approach would allow the US military to adjust its posture more quickly in response to changing security conditions.
Iran-related threats and RAF Fairford
The discussion comes after the United States withdrew its B-1 bombers from RAF Fairford in Britain, reportedly following intelligence indicating a potential threat to US military personnel and aircraft.
The New York Times, citing US and British officials, reported that American authorities had received specific and credible intelligence suggesting that Iran-backed elements were planning drone attacks against the British Royal Air Force base.
The development has raised concerns that Iran-linked threats could extend beyond military installations in the Middle East to bases in Europe that support long-range American military operations.
US officials downplay impact of bomber withdrawal
Officials in the administration of President Donald Trump have described the withdrawal from Fairford as a precautionary and temporary measure rather than a major change in US military strategy.
US Air Force commanders have also said that removing the bombers from Britain has not compromised the military's ability to conduct long-range missions, as aircraft based in the United States can also support operations at considerable distances.
The Pentagon's broader review reflects growing attention in Washington to the vulnerability of overseas US military infrastructure and the need to balance force protection with the ability to respond rapidly to threats across the Middle East.
AALIMI NATION | WORLD NEWS
