A sudden surge in U.S. military aircraft deployments to Europe sparked intense speculation amid escalating tensions with Iran. Defense monitors report multiple C-17 cargo flights, AC-130 gunships and special operations aircraft moving into the UK, mirroring patterns seen ahead of past U.S. strikes. Some aircraft are linked to elite Nightstalker units, while fighter jets and refueling tankers have also been spotted in the Persian Gulf. The buildup comes as nationwide protests rock Iran and Washington repeatedly warns of action over Tehran’s crackdown. With President Donald Trump saying the U.S. “stands ready to help,” analysts question whether this is routine movement—or preparation for a new military escalation.