Military and Economic Offensive by the USA against Iran: F-22 Fighters and New Sanctions

The Donald Trump administration has taken decisive steps to militarily and economically encircle Iran. A key element of this strategy is the deployment of powerful air forces, numbering over 150 aircraft — including fighters, early warning aircraft, and tankers — to operational bases in Europe and the Middle East region. The most advanced F-22 Raptor fighters have already arrived in Israel, sending a clear signal of readiness for potential surgical strikes. At the same time, the world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, has anchored off the coast of Crete, demonstrating the US naval presence in the eastern Mediterranean. Some media, including China's Global Times, report alleged technical problems on board the vessel related to the sewage system, though these reports have not been officially confirmed by the US Navy. On the economic front, the US Department of the Treasury announced the introduction of restrictive sanctions targeting the so-called shadow fleet. They cover over a dozen vessels involved in the illegal export of Iranian oil, aiming to cut Tehran off from crucial foreign currency revenues. Experts note that this model resembles the 'maximum pressure' policy previously applied to Venezuela. Iran, however, is not passive and, according to intelligence reports, is conducting advanced talks with Beijing regarding the purchase of CM-302 missiles. This technology could drastically alter the balance of power, giving Iran a tool to effectively attack carrier strike groups. Since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, relations between Washington and Tehran have been based on continuous confrontation, with climactic moments including the hostage crisis, the Tanker War in the 1980s, and the collapse of the nuclear deal in 2018.The situation is becoming increasingly complicated due to the growing involvement of other powers. While China offers technological and armament support, Russia declares military assistance for Tehran, creating an informal bloc of resistance against American dominance. Washington fears that the transfer of Chinese hypersonic missiles could prompt Iran to take more aggressive actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The current escalation is seen as a test of strength ahead of potential negotiations for a new regional security arrangement, though for now both sides are focused on demonstrating military might.