US Relocates Forces From Gulf Bases Ahead Of Possible Iran Strike
On 18 June, the US began relocating aircraft and naval assets from key military sites in West Asia over concerns of potential Iranian retaliation, two US officials told reporters on condition of anonymity.
The repositioning effort includes aircraft not housed in hardened shelters at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, and naval vessels previously stationed at the port of Bahrain, home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet. One official said the moves fall under standard force protection procedures. “It is not an uncommon practice,” the official said. “Force protection is the priority.”