U.S. Planes Land at Jordan Base, a Key Hub for Planning Possible Iran Strikes

NYT Homepage

by Riley Mellen, Christoph Koettl and Eric Schmitt

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The U.S. military has significantly increased its presence at Muwaffaq Salti base in Jordan, with satellite images and flight data showing a major buildup of attack aircraft and equipment. At least 60 attack planes are parked at the base, including advanced F-35 stealth fighters and drones, tripling the usual number of jets seen there. Additionally, 68 cargo planes have landed since Sunday, suggesting a rapid deployment of resources. The base has become a key hub for planning potential strikes on Iran, with new air defense systems installed to protect against Iranian missile threats. The buildup in Jordan is part of a broader U.S. military expansion across the region, coinciding with ongoing negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. President Trump has indicated that he is considering limited military strikes as a means to pressure Iran into reaching an agreement. Meanwhile, Jordanian officials have emphasized their commitment to diplomatic solutions and have expressed hope that negotiations will prevent regional conflict. Similar sentiments have been echoed by leaders in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who have praised the talks while barring attacks on Iranian soil from their territories. The presence of advanced aircraft, including F-35s, underscores the strategic importance of Muwaffaq Salti as a staging ground for potential military action. The deployment also reflects the U.S. government’s escalating approach to negotiations with Iran, signaling a willingness to use force if diplomatic efforts fail. This development comes amid heightened regional tensions and concerns about the stability of the Middle East. For readers interested in global security and geopolitical developments, this situation highlights the delicate balance of power and diplomacy in the region. The buildup at Jordan’s Muwaffaq Salti base serves as a reminder of how quickly tensions can escalate, particularly given the involvement of major powers like the U.S. and Iran. As negotiations continue, the focus remains on whether dialogue or military action will prevail, with significant implications for regional stability.

Verticals

newsgeneral

Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/21/2026