Iran Downplays U.S. Military Buildup In Middle East
Iran’s defense minister Brigadier General Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani has downplayed the United States military buildup in the Middle East, praising his country’s key role in the region.
“America is pursuing its own plans, but the Islamic Republic has reached such a level of power and authority, where no one is capable of threatening it,” the minister said on July 19 when asked by state media reporters about the significance of the U.S. military buildup.
The minister described his country as a “leading regional player,” with growing technological advancements across naval and ground fronts.
Ashtiani also praised Iran as a “drone power in the world,” noting that “all types of Iran-made drones have drawn the attention of other countries,” but did not name the receiving sides, nor did he explain if they will be used in potential military confrontations with the U.S.
Tensions have been mounting in the Middle East since Iran seized two oil tankers on April 27 and May 3 in the Persian Gulf, reportedly in response to the capture of a China-bound Iranian oil shipment by the U.S. near southern Africa on April 22.
The Pentagon announced on May 12 that it will increase the rotation of ships and aircraft patrolling in and around the Strait of Hormuz. Shortly after, it became known that the U.S. deployed A-10 attack aircraft in the Middle East.
On July 5, the U.S. claimed that Iranian naval forces attempted to seize two oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz and fired on one of them.
In response to the alleged incident, the Pentagon said on July 14 that it was deploying F-16 fighter jets around the Strait of Hormuz to protect ships in the narrow waterway, which is responsible for one-fifth of global oil traffic, from Iranian seizures
On July 17, the U.S. said that F-35 stealth fighter jets as well as the USS Thomas Hudner destroyer vessel will be also deployed in the region for the same purpose.
Further expanding its presence in the Middle East, the Pentagon announced the deployment of an Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit into the Central Command area of responsibility in the region on July 20.
It’s unclear what measures Iran has taken in response to the U.S. military build up in the Middle East. However, the remarks of the country’s defense minister echo a high level of confidence. Overall, Tehran appears to be well aware that Washington understands the heavy cost of any confrontation in the region, especially in the Persian Gulf.
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