The possibility of conflict with Iran prompted the U.S. military to start using several extra ports and bases in Saudi Arabia for the first time over the past year, Wall Street Newspaper reports.
The decision appears aimed at expanding the ability to operate militarily and complicate Iran’s options in Saudi Arabia if tensions with Tehran, which is at odds with Washington and Riyadh, boil in the future. “What it does is give us options, and the options are always good for a commander,” said General Frank McKenzie, head of the United States Central Command. diary.
McKenzie explained that the United States and Saudi Arabia are negotiating infrastructure plans for the coastal port of Yanbu, as well as two air bases to make them more usable for the American military. He said other sites that have not been revealed are being considered.
While the diary notes, the Biden government has promised to take a tougher stance on human rights issues in Saudi Arabia, but the effort to expand the military base – which started under the Trump administration – suggests that Washington will continue to count on Saudi Arabia as an important ally . Read more at Wall Street Newspaper.
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