The United States moved some military assets deployed in the Middle East to safe areas in preparation for potential retaliation by Iran, Reuters reported on the 18th (local time).
This action is interpreted as part of the U.S. effort to enhance the protection of its troops in case of emergency as the armed conflict between Israel and Iran escalates.
According to Reuters, the move includes military aircraft stationed at Al Udeid Air Base near Doha, Qatar, and some aircraft that were on standby without separate protective facilities have been relocated to different positions. Some vessels belonging to the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet are also reported to have moved from Bahrain to other areas.
A U.S. military official stated in an interview with Reuters, "This move is not a routine measure. The protection of the military is a top priority."
Previously, the U.S. military had moved a substantial number of aircraft carriers and aerial refuelers to the Middle East. This is seen as a strategic move to secure military options in anticipation of various scenarios following the conflict between Israel and Iran.
U.S. President Donald Trump has recently pressured Iran to "unconditionally surrender," leaving open the possibility of U.S. military intervention. The possibility of the U.S. participating in Israeli attacks against Iran has not been ruled out.
Meanwhile, Reuters separately reported that the U.S. Embassy in Qatar has temporarily restricted access to its staff at Al Udeid Base starting from the 19th. The embassy conveyed to its personnel and Americans residing locally to "closely monitor regional hostilities" and maintain a state of alert.