Tensions between the US and Iran are nearing a boiling point, with diplomatic efforts continuing even as Washington ramps up its military posture across the region and issues direct threats toward Tehran.
President Donald Trump has set an early March deadline for reaching a deal and warned that if no agreement is achieved, "bad things will happen." Writing overnight between Monday and Tuesday, Trump said he would "prefer a deal, but if not, it will be a very bad day for Iran."
Meanwhile, At least 12 F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets landed Tuesday at an Israeli Air Force base in southern Israel as part of the US regional deployment in the Middle East, a source at US Central Command confirmed to Kan News.
The F-22 is a strategic stealth fighter aircraft operated by the US. Unlike the F-35, Washington has not sold the F-22 to any other country. Much of the aircraft's capabilities remain classified and it is considered a state secret in the US, with abilities unmatched by any other fighter jet.
The aircraft's structure and composite materials enable it to evade radar detection, allowing it to fly covertly toward its target. To preserve its stealth profile, the missiles it carries are stored internally rather than mounted under its wings until the moment of launch. The F-22 is also equipped with a low-observable radar system that allows it to detect adversaries without exposing itself while in stealth configuration, along with advanced self-defense capabilities.
According to Bloomberg, Trump has assembled the largest US military force in the region since the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Officials in Tehran reportedly assess that if the Islamic Republic of Iran withstands a possible strike, it would be able to claim victory.
At the same time, The New York Times reported that the president is considering an initial strike in the coming days. If that fails to break the regime's resilience, a broader military campaign could follow, even as Pentagon officials warn of the risk of a prolonged confrontation.
