The deadline set by US President Trump for Iran is entering its final hours, with the American and Israeli militaries fully preparing for the President to issue the strike order.
According to Reuters, on Tuesday, a US B-52 “Stratofortress” strategic bomber loaded with ammunition took off from the RAF Fairford Royal Air Force Base in the UK to prepare for a strike mission against Iran.
British media outlet SWNS reported that footage showed increased activity of US military aircraft operating at the Fairford base, including a Boeing B-52 strategic bomber.
As the tension between the US and Iran intensifies, the US military is mobilizing aircraft in preparation for a potential escalation in the Middle East. While US authorities have not disclosed the details of military operations, the presence of strategic bombers highlights a state of high alert.
President Trump has demanded Iran to end the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by 8 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, threatening to destroy all bridges and power plants within Iran if they fail to comply. Iran, in turn, has vowed retaliation against US Gulf allies.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military, which is conducting joint operations against Iran alongside the US, is also prepared. An Israeli security official told CNN that the joint military operation plan between the US and Israel is ready and awaiting President Trump’s command to execute.
“We know that the President may decide to extend the deadline for the next few hours or may directly order the aircraft to take off for the mission against Iran,” the official added.
Another Israeli source familiar with the preparedness plans told CNN that if negotiations between the US and Iran break down, the main targets for strikes against Iran would be the country’s national infrastructure, especially those reserved for the final stages of operations.
The source stated that Israel would focus on attacking energy and power facilities, while the US would target oil installations.
According to two Israeli sources who spoke to CNN, Israel approved an updated list of Iranian energy and infrastructure targets on Monday to address the scenario where Iran misses Trump’s deadline.
Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said on Tuesday, “We are approaching a strategic juncture for joint action against Iran.”
Zamir stated in a situation assessment meeting, “So far, we have achieved significant results, including meeting the objectives set at the beginning of the operation. We will continue to act resolutely to further weaken the Iranian regime.”