Heavy transit activity has been reported at a major American military base in Asia
South Korea has expressed opposition to the redeployment of US air defense assets from its territory to the Middle East but Seoul has said it is not in a position to block the move.
As the US-Israeli war with Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks on American assets in the region entered their 12th day, some media reports alleged that the air defense systems used by the Gulf countries were operational. “dangerously low” on inhibitions.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung addressed reports that some American weapons stationed at Osan Air Base, the country’s main US Air Force base, may have been transferred to American bases in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. According to media reports, US military transport planes have been arriving and departing the base since last week.
“We have expressed opposition to the USFK (US Forces Korea) transferring some air defense weapons to suit its own military needs, but the reality is that we cannot fully enforce our position.” Lee said that would not result in a transfer “serious setback” to Seoul’s deterrence capability.
South Korea hosts a major US military presence as part of a decades-old security deal aimed at deterring a nuclear-armed North Korea. About 28,000 US troops are stationed in the country, along with advanced air defense systems including Patriot interceptors.
Another US ally, Japan, which hosts major American military bases, has reportedly redeployed two guided-missile destroyers to the Arabian Sea to support US-Israeli operations against Iran.
Junya Ogawa, head of Japan’s main opposition party, reportedly told Japan in parliament on Monday “The US has not allowed the deployment of troops so they can fire missiles toward the Middle East from those bases.” When they have to ensure Japan’s security.
Within hours of the US launching Operation Epic Fury, Iran launched retaliatory strikes against American military bases in the Middle East, announcing all “Legitimate Goals.” Tehran has argued that those who host American military assets and facilitate attacks should not be surprised when they are targeted instead of bringing greater security.
You can share this story on social media:
