Michael Rubin
1945, Mar. 28, 2025
“Four things now upend traditional American restraint.”
Summary and Key Points: The U.S. military is positioning B-2 stealth bombers at Diego Garcia, signaling potential strikes against Iran amid heightened tensions.
-Historically cautious, America’s approach to Iran seems to be changing under President Trump, especially after recent Iranian provocations, nuclear advancements, and direct attacks against Israel.
-The strategic deployment indicates preparations for significant military action if needed.
However, attacking Iran is complex, requiring extensive bombing missions to disable Iranian defenses first. Israeli precision strikes demonstrate effectiveness, but risks remain.
-Key indicators of imminent action would include relocating U.S. aircraft carriers away from vulnerable positions in the Persian Gulf, signaling readiness for sustained operations.
Is an Attack on Iran Likely? Yes. Imminent? Perhaps.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has ordered advanced B-2 stealth bombers to the U.S. base in the Indian Ocean archipelago of Diego Garcia.
The move is symbolically important. Not only are the B-2s among America’s most sophisticated aircraft, but nearly every significant U.S. military engagement in the Middle East dating back to Operation Desert Storm in 1991 began with bomber sorties launched from Diego Garcia. ….SOURCE