The long-running tensions between the United States and Iran have raised fears among many that it might escalate into World War 3 if not kept under control. Fears remain stoked as the US has deployed its B-52 nuclear bombers to the Middle East in a warning to Iran.
Donald Trump recently had B-52 nuclear bomber planes deployed to the Middle East as part of an attempt to showcase the US’ military power against Tehran. The US Central Command confirmed the bombers’ arrivals, citing that these planes would help in deterring aggression and maintaining peace among US allies and its partners. Three of the bombers flew to Israel first before arriving at a US base. This would be the third time in a span of 18 months that bombers were deployed as threats to Iran. Washington was previously seeking to extend the UN arms embargo against Iran, which would restrict the Islamic nation’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions.
Trump had abandoned the agreement back in 2018 and imposed sanctions on Iranian oil exports. The move has not been beneficial to the US economy. It has also been speculated that Trump was looking to attack the Islamic nation before he leaves office in January. This was paired with the abrupt termination of US Defense Secretary Mark Esper, which was met with criticism as Trump fired Esper at a time when he was reeling from his election loss to Joe Biden.
The outgoing president was also revealed to have been advised against launching a military strike on Iran’s nuclear site earlier this month. Advisers cited that striking Iran’s nuclear site would trigger an all-out conflict.
Aside from the conflict between the US and Iran, there is also the long-running conflict between India and China over the Himalayan border that could turn into World War 3 if not kept in check. Recent satellite images have revealed China’s military has been building bunkers near the disputed border as well as Bhutan territory. The images were obtained by Indian news outlet NDTV and were taken by the US satellite firm Maxar.
Reports have revealed that the building of these bunkers, along with roads and a village took place near the Doklam region of the Himalayas. The village was set up a little over a mile into Bhutan and the road spans six miles into the country.