US Navy aircraft were detected circling over neutral waters in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, according to a Middle East air traffic source cited by TASS.

The planes were observed operating near Iran's Flight Information Region, adding to the visible military footprint in the region.

The deployment comes amid a sharp escalation in hostilities.

Recent reports indicate the United States has launched a new round of airstrikes against targets in Iran, while Tehran has responded by firing back at Gulf Arab states.

This exchange marks a significant intensification of the conflict, moving beyond diplomatic posturing to direct kinetic engagement.

For energy markets, the persistent presence of US warplanes signals that shipping disruption risks remain acute.