Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf states have banned US warplanes from their airspace amid rising tensions following increased military operations in Yemen. The US has responded by shifting warplanes to Diego Garcia, and Gulf states express concern over aggressive US rhetoric towards Iran. The Trump administration seeks support from these countries while facing hesitance on involvement in regional conflicts.

Saudi Arabia, along with other Persian Gulf nations, has instituted a ban preventing United States warplanes from utilizing their airfields or airspace for military strikes, particularly in relation to increased operations against Yemen in recent weeks. This decision comes amidst heightened US military activity in the region, following a significant operation by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which has led to a surge in US cargo transportation and military presence in Jordan and Persian Gulf countries.

In response to the ban from Gulf states, the United States has reportedly positioned B-2 bombers at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, which are typically employed for bombings. The Ansarullah movement has issued warnings concerning potential attacks targeting Abu Dhabi and Dubai if the UAE continues collaborating with the US on operations in Yemen. Regional leaders express concerns about US President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance on Iran, which has included threats of unprecedented military actions.

The Trump administration is actively seeking support from Persian Gulf states as it intensifies its maximum pressure strategy against Tehran. However, these states are reluctant to commit further involvement due to fears of escalating regional conflicts. Prior to the assaults on Yemen, US military and intelligence representatives engaged with Emirati and Saudi officials in Washington, leading to the approval of previously stalled arms sales to Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Furthermore, Trump has indicated plans for potential visits to these Gulf states as early as May, reflecting his administration’s aggressive demands regarding Iran’s nuclear interests. Despite the US maintaining a substantial military presence in West Asia, with around 40,000 troops stationed in the Gulf, the regional states are wary of being drawn into broader conflicts.

Strategically, key air bases in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar host US military operations, with bases like Prince Sultan Air Base and Al Udeid Air Base supporting a variety of aircraft, including F-16s, F-35s, and MQ-9 Reaper drones. The region also accommodates a significant number of US naval forces based in Bahrain. In contrast, Yemen has engaged in targeting foreign vessels in solidarity with Gazans, while the US continues to conduct airstrikes in an effort to exert pressure on Iran to enter negotiations.

In summary, the imposition of a ban by Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies on US warplanes underscores growing tensions in the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape. The US’s military buildup in response to regional threats and the refusal of Gulf states to fully align with Trump’s aggressive policies towards Iran highlight a complex interplay of interests and strategic caution. As the situation evolves, the region remains on edge, with increasing military engagements and diplomatic challenges ahead.

Original Source: www.presstv.ir

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