The United States has quietly shifted around 40 military aircraft out of Qatar. This happened over the past two weeks as fears grow about possible attacks from Iran. The news comes from AFP, which studied satellite images from Planet Labs PBC.
The photos show that Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US base in West Asia, had most of its planes removed between June 5 and June 19. The US made this move to protect its military assets. Tensions are rising due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
Trump Hasn’t Approved Military Action Yet
Although the situation is getting worse, President Donald Trump hasn’t yet approved US involvement. At the same time, Iran warned that it will attack American military bases in West Asia if the US joins the fight.
On June 5, the base held about 40 planes, including C-130 transport aircraft and advanced surveillance jets. But by June 19, only three planes remained.
US Embassy Issues Safety Warning
Earlier, the US embassy in Qatar restricted access to the airbase. It explained this was done “out of an abundance of caution and in light of ongoing regional hostilities.” The embassy also told US staff in the area to “exercise increased vigilance.”
US Sends Refuelling Aircraft to Europe
Meanwhile, the US has been sending military equipment elsewhere. According to AFP’s review of flight tracking data, between June 15 and 18, the US sent at least 27 refuelling aircraft to Europe. These included KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135 Stratotanker planes.
By Wednesday night, 25 of those planes were still in Europe. Only two had returned. These aircraft help with long-range missions. Their movement shows the US could be preparing for a wider conflict.
Troops on High Alert in West Asia
At the same time, US forces in West Asia remain on high alert. Military families have the option to leave voluntarily due to possible Iranian strikes.
Right now, about 40,000 American troops are stationed in the region. That’s more than the usual 30,000. In fact, numbers briefly hit 43,000 in October during earlier clashes involving Israel, Iran, and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
The Pentagon hasn’t given updates about troop movements. However, officials say US forces are ready to respond fast if things change with Iran.
Trump Will Decide in Two Weeks
The White House said President Trump will decide in the next two weeks whether to back Israel’s military actions against Iran.
Even with the growing tension, Trump still hopes for a diplomatic solution. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, “Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” quoting Trump.
