Fighters from Arab Countries and Israel Escort U.S. Strategic Bomber Over the Gulf

U.S. military leaders announced on Sunday, October 31, that fighters from several Arab countries, along with Israel, accompanied a U.S. Air Force strategic bomber in a "show of force" over key waterways in the Middle East. According to Arab News, a U.S. B-1 Lancer bomber flew over the Arabian Gulf, Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Suez Canal, Gulf of Oman, and Strait of Hormuz, escorted by warplanes from Egypt, Bahrain, and Israel. U.S. Central Command Commander in the Middle East, General Frank McKenzie, stated, "The mission of the bombers was aimed at conveying a clear reassurance message and readiness for any emergencies or missions." The U.S. B-1 Lancer is a long-range supersonic strategic bomber capable of carrying very heavy conventional payloads.