A spokesman for the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) John Kirby said that Iran's transformation into a nuclear power would complicate the security of the region, stressing that his country is ready to defend its interests there.
In an exclusive interview with Al-Jazeera, Kirby confirmed that the withdrawal of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz comes within the framework of the rotation of naval vessels, indicating that his country still maintains a very strong presence to deter conflict in the region and to support partners and friends there.
He indicated that the Pentagon seeks to provide options for US President Joe Biden to defend the interests of the United States, and Washington has a strong presence in the region to deter any conflict in it.
On the visit of the Commander of the Central Command in the US forces, General Kenneth McKenzie, to the western region in Saudi Arabia, Kirby said that McKinsey's talks with Saudi officials are exploratory and have been going on for some time.
He stressed that the visit was not related to negotiating the establishment of permanent military bases there.
He also said that Saudi Arabia is a key partner in the fight against terrorism, and that this partnership is continuing.
Kirby described the situation in Yemen as the biggest humanitarian disaster in the world at the present time, and we are aware of that, stressing that his country's authorities should discuss the issue with Saudi Arabia.
He said that President Biden wants to "review our contributions in support of Saudi Arabia's offensive operations in Yemen," adding that when we provide support to our partners, it should be in line with our interests and values.