Israeli fighter jets attacked Iran's important military bases and assets with missiles and bombs over a week ago. Due to the proximity of the U.S. presidential election at that time, Iran postponed retaliatory strikes against Israel. Now, the U.S. seems to be strengthening its defensive capabilities in the Middle East as the risk of regional conflict remains high.

Pentagon officials confirmed to Fox News last Friday that U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered several B-52 'Stratofortress' bombers, tankers, and Navy destroyers to head to the Middle East.

Pentagon spokesperson, Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, said in a statement to Reuters that more military assets will begin arriving in the region in the coming months.

Ryder stated, 'If Iran, its partners, or proxies take advantage of this opportunity to target U.S. personnel or interests in the region, the U.S. will take all necessary measures to defend our people.'

The short-term strategic positioning of increased U.S. military assets in the region — think of it as a game of international chess — may only indicate that after the U.S. election cycle ends, the risk of war could escalate.

In other words, the Pentagon may eventually take a serious stance towards Iran-backed Houthi militants, other Iranian proxies, and even Tehran itself, as they cause disruptions in critical maritime chokepoints.

Ryder said, 'Austin's latest directive shows that the U.S. has the capability to deploy rapidly worldwide to address evolving national security threats.'

A week ago, the USA informed Saudi Arabia that if Tehran or its proxies attempted to attack Saudi's Abqaiq refinery with a drone swarm or hypersonic missiles to weaponize crude oil, the USA would provide defense support to Saudi Arabia.

Austin revealed last month that B-2 stealth bombers attacked underground weapon storage facilities of Houthi militants, sending a clear message to Tehran.

At that time, Austin said: "This was a unique demonstration, showing that the USA has the ability to target facilities that our adversaries are trying to keep us away from, no matter how deeply buried, fortified, or reinforced they are." He also said: "The use of USAF B-2 stealth bombers demonstrates that the USA has the ability to take action against these targets anytime, anywhere, conducting global strikes when necessary."

Last Saturday morning, Iran's Supreme Leader threatened Israel and the USA, stating they will provide a harsh response.

Meanwhile, the geopolitical risk premium for Brent crude oil has almost disappeared. But will all this change after the USA presidential election?

Reuters pointed out that as the "Lincoln" carrier strike group was preparing to leave the region, the USA deployed more bombers and warships to the area.