American air force would continue its stationary in MENA region even as military planners consider competition with China and Russia, said the top US Air Force general in the Mideast on Saturday.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the Dubai Airshow, Lt. Gen. Gregory Guillot acknowledged that presence “could adjust” after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in August. “But I don’t see any scenario where the United States does not have an important role,” Guillot said.
The US Air Force operates a major base in nearby Qatar, which oversaw operations in Afghanistan, as well as Iraq and Syria.
Guillot’s comments come as tensions remain high between Iran and the US after years of confrontations following then-President Donald Trump’s decision to unilaterally withdraw America from Tehran’s nuclear deal with world powers.
US declined several times to directly attribute recent drone attacks in the region to Iran, though it acknowledged the rising number of such assaults in the region. Russia is expected to display its Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow this week. It’s a direct competitor to the American F-35 fighter.
Guillot said he hoped that US allies and partners would use equipment that would be “interoperable” with the American military. He said buying Russian arms and fighters would “absolutely” affect that.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.