US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said it was up to Iran to decide whether the recent deployment of B-2 bombers by the US was a message to Tehran. He expressed hope that the negotiations between the United States and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear program could be resolved peacefully.
Up to six B-2 bombers were stationed in March at an American-British military base on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, according to US officials speaking to news agency Reuters.
The US Air Force only has 20 B-2 bombers, which are typically used sparingly. Experts believe that the B-2, which features stealth technology and is equipped to transport the heaviest US bombs and nuclear weapons, is ideally positioned for use in the Middle East.
When asked if the B-2 bombers were intended as a message to Iran, Hegseth told reporters during a trip to Panama, “That’s for them to decide. It’s a big advantage. It sends a message to all. President Trump has made it clear. Iran must not have nuclear weapons. We very much hope that the President will focus on achieving this through peaceful means.”
Trump unexpectedly announced on Monday that the US and Iran would hold “direct talks” on Tehran’s nuclear program on Saturday, April 12th. He warned that Iran was “in great danger” if the talks failed. The Islamic Republic, which had previously defied Trump’s demands, announced that the indirect talks would take place in Oman, highlighting the differences between the two countries. Trump had threatened with military force again on Wednesday, should Iran not agree to halt its nuclear program. “I’m not asking for much. but they must not have nuclear weapons” Trump told reporters. “If it’s militarily necessary, we will act militarily. Israel will of course. lead. We go where we want.”
Teheran recently issued warnings to its neighboring countries, should they support any potential US airstrikes on targets in Iran. The Iranian government has warned neighboring countries that host US bases that they could be drawn into the conflict if they support the US in the Iranian-American dispute.
The fear of a regional wildfire has unsettled countries around the Persian Gulf. The waterway is bordered by Iran on one side and the US-aligned Arab monarchies on the other and plays a significant role in global oil supply. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has already threatened to attack US bases in the region in the event of a conflict.
Both the US and Iran have confirmed that they will hold indirect talks on Tehran’s nuclear program. A meeting is now scheduled to take place in Oman over the weekend. Moscow also welcomes the move.