The United States has carried out airstrikes on Iran for the eighth consecutive night, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The latest strikes reportedly targeted Iran’s surveillance and air defence systems, maritime capabilities, and missile and drone storage facilities.
The operation follows Iran’s attack on a US military base in Jordan, where two American service members were killed. The incident has sharply escalated tensions in the region, prompting Washington to place its military on heightened alert.
Over 50,000 US troops on alert
According to a report by The Jerusalem Post, citing US Central Command, more than 50,000 American troops stationed across the Middle East have been placed on full alert amid the deteriorating security situation.
The report said US forces have been instructed to remain prepared for any further military action as concerns grow over a wider regional conflict.
US reinforces military presence
In addition to troops already deployed in the region, the United States is strengthening its air power by sending additional fighter aircraft.
F-16 fighter jets are being deployed from Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, while F-35 stealth fighter jets are being sent from the United Kingdom. These aircraft are expected to be stationed in Israel and at other military bases across the region.
The US is also dispatching additional aerial refuelling aircraft to Israel to support extended military operations if required.
Global security advisory issued
The US State Department has expanded its security advisory beyond the Middle East, issuing a worldwide alert for American citizens.
Read More: Iran’s biggest internal crisis? Foreign Minister pelted with stones at Khamenei’s funeral, President gets threats over…; What is happening in Tehran amid war with US?
The advisory urges US nationals travelling or living abroad to remain vigilant as the conflict continues to intensify. It also warns that Iran-backed groups could target American citizens and US interests outside the region.
Israel closely monitoring the situation
According to The Jerusalem Post, Israel is closely tracking the rapidly evolving situation between the United States and Iran.
The report said the US military is preparing for further operations following eight consecutive nights of strikes, while Israeli officials believe Iran has, for now, refrained from directly targeting Israel. However, they warned that the situation could change quickly.
Israel awaiting US decision
The report also said US officials have advised Israel to stay out of the current conflict for the time being.
Israel had reportedly offered to participate in military operations against Iran, but Washington declined the proposal. Israeli involvement is expected to depend on Iran’s future actions.
Officials said that if Iran launches attacks against Israel, the Israeli military could carry out strikes inside Tehran. They also indicated that, if the US eventually approves Israel’s participation, Israeli forces may resume military operations against targets in Iran that remained unfinished before the previous ceasefire, including strikes on key infrastructure.
First published on: Jul 19, 2026 01:24 PM IST
Get Breaking News First and Latest Updates from India and around the world on News24. Follow News24 on Facebook, Twitter.
End of Article
Related Story
