U.S. assets were pulled back from the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, while others—including U.S. Navy ships from the Fifth Fleet and P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft—were withdrawn from Bahrain. These moves aim to shield American forces from potential Iranian retaliation, especially if the U.S. takes a more direct role in future Israeli military operations.

In parallel, dozens of heavy U.S. military transport aircraft, including C-17 Globemasters and C-5 Super Galaxys, have landed in Saudi Arabia, flying in from both the U.S. and European bases.

Satellite imagery confirms a major reinforcement of American forces at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. This includes air refueling planes, transport aircraft, and a large number of fighter jets.

In addition to the troop relocations, The New York Times recently reported that the U.S. military is constructing a new logistical base in the Saudi city of Yanbu, near the Red Sea. Satellite images show facilities for troop housing, vehicle and equipment storage, as well as bunkers and missile depots. The base is currently undergoing further expansion.

All of these moves indicate that the U.S. is actively bolstering security for the Saudi regime against a possible Iranian attack.

Given former President Trump’s consistent approach, it appears Saudi Arabia has effectively “purchased” a U.S. security guarantee—to protect both Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s rule and the kingdom’s oil production. As always with Trump, there are no free lunches.

The increased protection likely reflects U.S. expectations that the Israel-Iran confrontation is far from over. If Iran continues its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, Israel is expected to resume its strikes—which may prompt Iran to retaliate against Saudi Arabia, as it has previously threatened.