#iran-tensions

#iran-tensions

The Prime Minister has been told he is making Britain look "unreliable and weak" after reportedly denying US forces access to British bases. This move could impact potential strikes on Iran and influence international perceptions. Military leaders' warning about the decision underscores the seriousness of the situation, encouraging the audience to recognise the importance of strong defence policies for national safety.

The United States administration is intensifying its build-up of a vast array of military assets in the Middle East, as President Donald Trump says Iran has 10 to 15 days at most to agree a deal over its nuclear programme and stock of ballistic missiles. As well as the world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R Ford, which is reportedly joining the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group in the Arabian Sea, key force multipliers such as E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft have been deployed.

It comes, too, despite the Navy's top officer, Adm. Daryl Caudle, having publicly warned last month that the Ford and other vessels that compose its carrier strike group are in need of maintenance, saying there would be "some pushback" from him if an extension of the deployment - typically lasting about seven monthsto meet repair schedules- was sought. Any extension also would have an impact on the sailors and their families, he said.

Air Forces Central, the air component of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), said on Tuesday that it would hold a multi-day readiness exercise to demonstrate the ability to deploy, disperse, and sustain combat airpower across the US Central Command area of responsibility. The exercise was designed to enhance asset and personnel dispersal capability, strengthen regional partnerships and prepare for flexible response execution, Air Forces Central added in a statement.

President Trump's decision to not restore security details for former officials highlights his ongoing reluctance to provide protection even amid rising tensions with Iran.