U.S. and Israel Ramp Up Military Operations in the Middle East Ahead of Potential Strikes on Yemen and Iran

The U.S. Air Force has intensified its operations in the Middle East, deploying B-52H Stratofortress strategic bombers over Syria for the first time, alongside Israeli F-35I Adir fifth-generation fighters. This joint maneuver by U.S. and Israeli air forces comes as the Pentagon bolsters its military presence in preparation for a potential major operation against Iran and escalates strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen.

Military transport aircraft have been increasingly active in the region, signaling the transfer of strategic weapons to key bases. Observers note that the B-52H bombers, which took off from Diego Garcia Air Base in the Indian Ocean, are likely en route to target Houthi positions, as air defenses in the area are presumed to have been neutralized by coalition forces.

In addition, the Pentagon has redeployed B-2A Spirit stealth bombers from the continental United States to Diego Garcia, further indicating preparations for a large-scale operation that could encompass actions against Iran. These developments highlight Washington’s commitment to enhancing its strategic posture in the region amid rising tensions.

The joint flight of B-52Hs and F-35Is over Syria serves as a demonstration of the close military cooperation between the United States and Israel. The F-35Is, renowned for their stealth capabilities, provided essential cover for the strategic bombers, which are equipped to carry both nuclear and conventional weapons. This operation coincides with an uptick in strikes against targets associated with Iranian proxy groups, which analysts suggest could be part of a broader strategy to prepare for decisive action against Tehran.

Additional open-source information corroborates the growing American military presence. According to Air & Space Forces Magazine on March 5, 2025, B-52Hs from the 69th Expeditionary Bomber Squadron, stationed in the UK at RAF Fairford, conducted joint exercises with Israeli F-35Is and F-15Is over the Mediterranean on March 4. The Times of Israel reports that these maneuvers were aimed at practicing coordination for direct attacks on Iran and Yemen.