(ETH) – As America is getting ready to swear in its new leader for the next four years, the Middle East seems to be heating up with Iran making a promise to “crush its aggressors” after US B-52H Stratofortress bombers were spotted flying over the Middle East in a show of military strength.
According to a report from The Sun, The “presence patrol” mission transpired 24 hours after two Iranian missiles reportedly landed within 100 miles of a US aircraft strike group in the northern Indian Ocean. The incident makes the fifth time in recent months that the US has flown similar missions as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to reach a boiling point.
The report reveals that these Boeing aircraft are capable of carrying 32,000kg (70,000 pounds) of weapons including nuclear bombs. The report revealed that the Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Jadif Zarif slammed the US military operation. In a direct attack on outgoing US president Donald Trump, he tweeted:
“If your B-52H ‘Presence Patrols’ are meant to intimidate or warn Iran, you should have spent those $billions on your taxpayer’s health. “While we have not started a war in over 200 years, we don’t shy from crushing aggressors. Just ask your BFFs who supported Saddam.”
Bombers were seen flying over Israeli airspace over the weekend, according to sources there. General Frank McKenzie, of Central Command, said the missions demonstrate the US’ commitment to security in the Middle East and stated “Short-term deployments of strategic assets are an important part of our defensive posture in the region.
“The training opportunity and continued integration with regional partners improve readiness and deliver a clear and consistent message in the operational environment to both friends and potential adversaries, alike.” Meanwhile, Admiral Kaviani warned, “The enemies should know that in the event of any violation and encroachment on the maritime borders of the Islamic Republic of Iran, they will be targeted with cruise missiles from the coast and the sea,”.
