The B-52 bomber can fly around the world without landing by using complex mid-air refuelling. In 1957, three aircraft completed the first nonstop 24,325-mile global flight in 45 hours. This extreme endurance proves the bomber can strike any target on Earth within a single day.


The B-52 bomber can fly around the world without landing by using complex mid-air refuelling. In 1957, three aircraft completed the first nonstop 24,325-mile global flight in 45 hours. This extreme endurance proves the bomber can strike any target on Earth within a single day.

Can a B-52 bomber really fly around the world without landing?

The US Air Force is upgrading its B-52 bomber fleet to keep it flying into the 2050s, reaching nearly 100 years of service. The US$15 billion programme cleared its Critical Design Review in May 2026, paving the way for new Rolls-Royce engines and advanced digital radars.

The US Air Force is upgrading its B-52 bomber fleet to keep it flying into the 2050s, reaching nearly 100 years of service. The US$15 billion programme cleared its Critical Design Review in May 2026, paving the way for new Rolls-Royce engines and advanced digital radars.

The future of the B-52: How long will America's oldest bomber stay in service?

In 1994, two US Air Force B-52 bombers completed a historic 47-hour continuous flight without burning out their engines. This extreme endurance relies on a specialised pure aluminium oil cooling system that wraps around the engine nacelles to capture peak high-altitude airflow.

In 1994, two US Air Force B-52 bombers completed a historic 47-hour continuous flight without burning out their engines. This extreme endurance relies on a specialised pure aluminium oil cooling system that wraps around the engine nacelles to capture peak high-altitude airflow.

How a B-52 Bomber can fly nonstop for 47 hours without burning its engine?

In August 1994, two US Air Force B-52 bombers completed a historic 47-hour, 20,000-mile nonstop flight around the world. Supported by five mid-air refuellings, the aircraft successfully dropped 13 tons of explosives on a Kuwaiti target range with pinpoint precision.


In August 1994, two US Air Force B-52 bombers completed a historic 47-hour, 20,000-mile nonstop flight around the world. Supported by five mid-air refuellings, the aircraft successfully dropped 13 tons of explosives on a Kuwaiti target range with pinpoint precision.

47 hours and 12 minutes nonstop: How futuristic technology helped a B-52 bomber make history in 1994

Flying a B-52 for 20 hours forces the five-person crew to battle extreme fatigue. Using just one bunk, an oven, and a chemical toilet, the crew endures cramped conditions and relies on aerial refuelling.

Flying a B-52 for 20 hours forces the five-person crew to battle extreme fatigue. Using just one bunk, an oven, and a chemical toilet, the crew endures cramped conditions and relies on aerial refuelling.

What happens when a B-52 bomber flies for 20 hours without landing?

The B-52 relies on dangerous multi-directional ejection seats, blasting pilots upward and navigators downward. This downward path is often fatal at low altitudes, but a USD 48.6 billion J-model upgrade will soon alter the crew's escape dynamics.

The B-52 relies on dangerous multi-directional ejection seats, blasting pilots upward and navigators downward. This downward path is often fatal at low altitudes, but a USD 48.6 billion J-model upgrade will soon alter the crew's escape dynamics.Untitled Summary

Escape system: Why does the B-52 bomber still use ejection seats?

The B-52 can easily fly with an engine out, proven in 2017 when one detached mid-flight. It keeps its eight-engine layout because a four-engine setup would cause lethal asymmetric thrust if one failed.

The B-52 can easily fly with an engine out, proven in 2017 when one detached mid-flight. It keeps its eight-engine layout because a four-engine setup would cause lethal asymmetric thrust if one failed.

Engine resilience: Can a B-52 bomber fly with one engine out?

The B-52 bomber cannot land at any airport due to its 560,000-pound weight and 185-foot wingspan. It requires a 10,000-foot reinforced runway. However, the B-52J upgrade helps it operate from more remote airfields under new military doctrines.

The B-52 bomber cannot land at any airport due to its 560,000-pound weight and 185-foot wingspan. It requires a 10,000-foot reinforced runway. However, the B-52J upgrade helps it operate from more remote airfields under new military doctrines.

Runway reality: Can a B-52 bomber operate from any airport?

The B-52 features a 185-foot wingspan with a high angle of incidence for flat takeoffs. Packing heavy fuel, the wings flex down by 12 feet, needing outrigger wheels and spoilers for roll control.

The B-52 features a 185-foot wingspan with a high angle of incidence for flat takeoffs. Packing heavy fuel, the wings flex down by 12 feet, needing outrigger wheels and spoilers for roll control.

Wing wonder: Why are the B-52 bomber's wings unlike those of modern aircraft?

Hundreds of retired US Air Force B-52 bombers were permanently destroyed in the Arizona desert during the 1990s to comply with the START I arms reduction treaty. While 365 were chopped into pieces by giant guillotines, roughly 40 survive today in museums or as testbeds.


Hundreds of retired US Air Force B-52 bombers were permanently destroyed in the Arizona desert during the 1990s to comply with the START I arms reduction treaty. While 365 were chopped into pieces by giant guillotines, roughly 40 survive today in museums or as testbeds.

Aircraft graveyard: Where did all the retired B-52 bombers go?

The B-52 bomber is exceptionally adaptable due to its 70,000-pound payload and flexible airframe. Upgraded under a USD 48.6 billion programme with Rolls-Royce engines and AESA radar, the B-52J will fly for an unprecedented 100 years.

The B-52 bomber is exceptionally adaptable due to its 70,000-pound payload and flexible airframe. Upgraded under a USD 48.6 billion programme with Rolls-Royce engines and AESA radar, the B-52J will fly for an unprecedented 100 years.

Versatility factor: What makes the B-52 bomber one of the most adaptable aircraft ever built?

The B-52 stays effective without stealth by acting as a long-range standoff missile truck. Launching hypersonic weapons from safe airspace, deploying MALD decoys, and partnering with the B-21 Raider ensures its survival into the 2050s.

The B-52 stays effective without stealth by acting as a long-range standoff missile truck. Launching hypersonic weapons from safe airspace, deploying MALD decoys, and partnering with the B-21 Raider ensures its survival into the 2050s.

Stealth alternative: Why has the B-52 bomber never needed stealth technology to remain effective?

The B-52 bomber relies on mid-air refuelling from KC-135 and KC-46 tankers to achieve unlimited global reach. Transferring fuel at 1,000 gallons per minute via a flying boom, this process unlocks historic non-stop combat operations.

The B-52 bomber relies on mid-air refuelling from KC-135 and KC-46 tankers to achieve unlimited global reach. Transferring fuel at 1,000 gallons per minute via a flying boom, this process unlocks historic non-stop combat operations.

Midair lifeline: Do B-52 bombers get refueled in the air?

The United States is planning to deploy up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to an air base in northern Australia amid heightened tensions with China.

US plans to deploy B-52 bombers in Australia amid China tensions

Israel's military released video on Sunday showing its fighter jets escorting US B-52 bombers over Israeli skies.

Watch:

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The military said it escorted two US bombers. The flight of the pair of B-52 bombers is the latest mission in the region aimed at warning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-urges-europe-to-avoid-threats-or-pressure-368676">Iran</a> amid tensions between Washington and Tehran.

The flight by the two heavy bombers came as a pro-Iran satellite channel based in Beirut broadcast Iranian military drone footage of an Israeli ship hit by a mysterious explosion only days earlier in the Middle-East.

While the channel sought to say Iran wasn't involved, Israel has blamed Tehran for what it described as an attack on the vessel.&nbsp;

The US military's central command said the two B-52s flew over the region accompanied by military aircraft from nations including Israel, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

It marked the fourth-such bomber deployment into the Middle-East this year and the second under President Joe Biden.

The military did not directly mention Iran in its statement, saying the flight was to "deter aggression and reassure partners and allies of the US military's commitment to security in the region." The bomber flights had become common in the last months of former President Donald Trump's administration.

Trump's 2018 decision to unilaterally withdraw from Iran's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-to-offer-constructive-plan-amid-hopes-of-informal-nuclear-talks-368392">nuclear deal</a> with world powers sparked a series of escalating incidents in the Middle-East.

Israel's military released video on Sunday showing its fighter jets escorting US B-52 bombers over Israeli skies. Watch: The military said it escorted two US bombers.

Israel's military released video on Sunday showing its fighter jets escorting US B-52 bombers over Israeli skies. Watch: The military said it escorted two US bombers. The flight of the pair of B-52 bombers is the latest mission in the region aimed at warning Iran amid tensions between Washington and Tehran. The flight by the two heavy bombers came as a pro-Iran satellite channel based in Beirut broadcast Iranian military drone footage of an Israeli ship hit by a mysterious explosion only days earlier in the Middle-East. While the channel sought to say Iran wasn't involved, Israel has blamed Tehran for what it described as an attack on the vessel. The US military's central command said the two B-52s flew over the region accompanied by military aircraft from nations including Israel, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It marked the fourth-such bomber deployment into the Middle-East this year and the second under President Joe Biden. The military did not directly mention Iran in its statement, saying the flight was to "deter aggression and reassure partners and allies of the US military's commitment to security in the region." The bomber flights had become common in the last months of former President Donald Trump's administration. Trump's 2018 decision to unilaterally withdraw from Iran's nuclear deal with world powers sparked a series of escalating incidents in the Middle-East.

Israeli jets escort US B-52 bombers amid Iran tensions

A B-52 US bomber has been deployed over the Israeli skies and this also has been done a second time in the Biden administration. Israeli fighter jets have escorted the bombers in the skies. A step has been taken to deter aggression between Iran and the US.

US flies two B-52 bombers over Israel amid tensions with Iran

Why US has deployed its $2 billion worth B-2 Spirit bombers in South China Sea

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-genocidal-taunts-will-not-end-iran-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-hits-back-220126">Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> has warned the United States of "painful consequences for everybody" if there is an escalation in tensions with the Islamic republic.

Zarif also accused the US of "playing a very, very dangerous game" in an interview with CNN aired on Tuesday.

"There will be painful consequences for everybody (if) there is an escalation against Iran, that's for sure," he said.

Tensions have risen between Washington and Tehran as the US has deployed a naval carrier group and B-52 bombers to the Gulf over unspecified alleged Iranian "threats".

"Having all these military assets in a small waterway is in itself prone to accident particularly when you have people who are interested in accidents. So extreme prudence is required and we believe the US is playing a very, very dangerous game," Zarif said.

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US President Donald Trump further stoked the fire in a tweet on Sunday that suggested Iran would be destroyed if it attacked US interests.

On Monday Trump appeared to play down the immediate threat posed by Iran and said he was ready to talk if Tehran takes the first step.

But Zarif said that Iran is "not going to talk to people who have broken their promises."

He was referring to Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal last year and the reimposition of sanctions that had been lifted in exchange for Iran scaling back its nuclear programme.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-situation-not-suitable-for-talks-choice-is-resistance-only-irans-rouhani-220250">Iranian President Hassan Rouhani</a> said in a televised speech Tuesday that whenever Trump's administration threatens Iran, international and domestic pressure means "they regret it in less than two hours".

"All those with the responsibility of the world on their shoulders tell the White House that this was a very dangerous thing to say ... (and) the Pentagon's pressure makes the president apologise and say we don't mean to wage war or attack," Rouhani&nbsp;added.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has warned the United States of "painful consequences for everybody" if there is an escalation in tensions with the Islamic republic.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has warned the United States of "painful consequences for everybody" if there is an escalation in tensions with the Islamic republic. Zarif also accused the US of "playing a very, very dangerous game" in an interview with CNN aired on Tuesday. "There will be painful consequences for everybody (if) there is an escalation against Iran, that's for sure," he said. Tensions have risen between Washington and Tehran as the US has deployed a naval carrier group and B-52 bombers to the Gulf over unspecified alleged Iranian "threats". "Having all these military assets in a small waterway is in itself prone to accident particularly when you have people who are interested in accidents. So extreme prudence is required and we believe the US is playing a very, very dangerous game," Zarif said. US President Donald Trump further stoked the fire in a tweet on Sunday that suggested Iran would be destroyed if it attacked US interests. On Monday Trump appeared to play down the immediate threat posed by Iran and said he was ready to talk if Tehran takes the first step. But Zarif said that Iran is "not going to talk to people who have broken their promises." He was referring to Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal last year and the reimposition of sanctions that had been lifted in exchange for Iran scaling back its nuclear programme. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised speech Tuesday that whenever Trump's administration threatens Iran, international and domestic pressure means "they regret it in less than two hours". "All those with the responsibility of the world on their shoulders tell the White House that this was a very dangerous thing to say ... (and) the Pentagon's pressure makes the president apologise and say we don't mean to wage war or attack," Rouhani added.

Iran warns of 'painful consequences' if US escalates tensions

Iraqis have endured successive wars but spiralling tensions between Washington and Tehran have many convinced that new conflict looms between their key allies and that they will pay the price.

In Washington, some commentators shrug off the bellicose talk towards Tehran saying it will abate when President Donald Trump reins in his hawkish national security adviser John Bolton to avoid a new -- and potentially far larger -- foreign military commitment.

But in Baghdad, the Pentagon's deployment to the Gulf of a carrier group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln accompanied by B-52 bombers have many people persuaded the US threats are very real.

In March 2003, warplanes from the Lincoln flew sortie after sortie over Iraq in the "shock and awe" bombing blitz that signalled the start of the US-led invasion.

The carrier had first deployed to the region in the aftermath of the 1991 Gulf War which ousted Saddam Hussein's forces from Kuwait.

In May 2003, it was from Lincoln's flight deck that president George W Bush announced the "end of major combat operations" in Iraq in front of a large banner proclaiming: "Mission Accomplished".

The victory declaration was to prove horribly premature, but to Iraqis, the nuclear-powered carrier remains a potent symbol of Washington's readiness to use its formidable military might.

The Lincoln "does not move just for the sake of exerting psychological pressure", said civil rights activist Aysar Jarjafji.

"It is deployed for a reason and returns home only when it has accomplished its mission," she said.

Iraq 'first loser'

Columnist Hussein Rashid agreed. "There is no question about it, there will be war," he said.&nbsp;

"And Iraq will be the first loser.&nbsp;

"The Abraham Lincoln bombed Iraq. We have a bad memory of that."

Taxi driver Abu Hammudi too believes war is coming.&nbsp;

It is Ramadan and the streets of Baghdad are largely deserted during the day as Muslims await the iftar meal that marks the end of their dawn-to-dusk fast.

"The city is empty, it's like wartime," he said.

"I remember perfectly well how Baghdad was bombed in 1991. It was a horrific night. No one had expected it to happen but it did."

Like many taxi drivers in Baghdad, Hammudi drives an Iranian-manufactured yellow Saipa.

The neighbouring countries, which have centuries-old religious and cultural ties, have massively expanded cross-border trade since the US-led overthrow of Saddam's regime, which fought a devastating 1980-88 war against Iran.

Trump strongly disapproves and has piled huge pressure on Iraq to reduce its economic dependence on it neighbour since he abandoned his predecessor Barack Obama's 2015 nuclear deal with Iran last year.

'Interests at stake'

But in Iraq, the Trump administration faces the hard reality that US military trainers and contractors work in the same ministries and businesses as those of Iran.

"American interests are present in Iraq and militias linked to Iran are also present here," said Jarjafji, sipping an after-iftar drink at a Baghdad cafe.

She was referring to Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force, which is dominated by Iranian-trained Shiite militias.

Those Iranian military trainers, like their US counterparts working with the regular army, played a major role in helping Baghdad defeat the Islamic State group fighters who overran much of the north and west of Iraq in 2014.

But it those same Iranian-trained militias which Washington said on Thursday pose the "imminent" threat to US personnel in Iraq that prompted the latest military deployments.

Washington has blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards -- the parallel army which provides the training -- as a "terrorist" organisation.

Iraqi militia commanders on Thursday dismissed the US allegation as a "provocation" and "psychological warfare".

And Washington's assessment of the immediacy of the threat is not shared by all of its allies in the coalition it forged to fight IS.

"There has been no increased threat from Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria," British coalition spokesman Major General Chris Ghika said on Tuesday.

Iraqi university professor Issa al-Abbadi said he was still hopeful that the realities on the ground would lead moderate voices to prevail.

"There could be a deal. Interests are at stake," he said of the uneasy coexistence between Washington and Tehran in Iraq.&nbsp;

"Victory in war is in avoiding it."&nbsp;

Iraqis have endured successive wars but spiralling tensions between Washington and Tehran have many convinced that new conflict looms between their key allies and that they will pay the price.

Iraqis have endured successive wars but spiralling tensions between Washington and Tehran have many convinced that new conflict looms between their key allies and that they will pay the price. In Washington, some commentators shrug off the bellicose talk towards Tehran saying it will abate when President Donald Trump reins in his hawkish national security adviser John Bolton to avoid a new -- and potentially far larger -- foreign military commitment. But in Baghdad, the Pentagon's deployment to the Gulf of a carrier group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln accompanied by B-52 bombers have many people persuaded the US threats are very real. In March 2003, warplanes from the Lincoln flew sortie after sortie over Iraq in the "shock and awe" bombing blitz that signalled the start of the US-led invasion. The carrier had first deployed to the region in the aftermath of the 1991 Gulf War which ousted Saddam Hussein's forces from Kuwait. In May 2003, it was from Lincoln's flight deck that president George W Bush announced the "end of major combat operations" in Iraq in front of a large banner proclaiming: "Mission Accomplished". The victory declaration was to prove horribly premature, but to Iraqis, the nuclear-powered carrier remains a potent symbol of Washington's readiness to use its formidable military might. The Lincoln "does not move just for the sake of exerting psychological pressure", said civil rights activist Aysar Jarjafji. "It is deployed for a reason and returns home only when it has accomplished its mission," she said. Iraq 'first loser' Columnist Hussein Rashid agreed. "There is no question about it, there will be war," he said. "And Iraq will be the first loser. "The Abraham Lincoln bombed Iraq. We have a bad memory of that." Taxi driver Abu Hammudi too believes war is coming. It is Ramadan and the streets of Baghdad are largely deserted during the day as Muslims await the iftar meal that marks the end of their dawn-to-dusk fast. "The city is empty, it's like wartime," he said. "I remember perfectly well how Baghdad was bombed in 1991. It was a horrific night. No one had expected it to happen but it did." Like many taxi drivers in Baghdad, Hammudi drives an Iranian-manufactured yellow Saipa. The neighbouring countries, which have centuries-old religious and cultural ties, have massively expanded cross-border trade since the US-led overthrow of Saddam's regime, which fought a devastating 1980-88 war against Iran. Trump strongly disapproves and has piled huge pressure on Iraq to reduce its economic dependence on it neighbour since he abandoned his predecessor Barack Obama's 2015 nuclear deal with Iran last year. 'Interests at stake' But in Iraq, the Trump administration faces the hard reality that US military trainers and contractors work in the same ministries and businesses as those of Iran. "American interests are present in Iraq and militias linked to Iran are also present here," said Jarjafji, sipping an after-iftar drink at a Baghdad cafe. She was referring to Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force, which is dominated by Iranian-trained Shiite militias. Those Iranian military trainers, like their US counterparts working with the regular army, played a major role in helping Baghdad defeat the Islamic State group fighters who overran much of the north and west of Iraq in 2014. But it those same Iranian-trained militias which Washington said on Thursday pose the "imminent" threat to US personnel in Iraq that prompted the latest military deployments. Washington has blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards -- the parallel army which provides the training -- as a "terrorist" organisation. Iraqi militia commanders on Thursday dismissed the US allegation as a "provocation" and "psychological warfare". And Washington's assessment of the immediacy of the threat is not shared by all of its allies in the coalition it forged to fight IS. "There has been no increased threat from Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria," British coalition spokesman Major General Chris Ghika said on Tuesday. Iraqi university professor Issa al-Abbadi said he was still hopeful that the realities on the ground would lead moderate voices to prevail. "There could be a deal. Interests are at stake," he said of the uneasy coexistence between Washington and Tehran in Iraq. "Victory in war is in avoiding it."

War talk grips Iraq as storied US carrier returns to Gulf

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-says-no-possibility-of-talks-with-us-report-219497">Mohammad Javad Zarif </a>said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported.

Tensions have escalated in recent days, with growing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict.&nbsp;

"There will be no war because neither we want a war, nor has anyone the idea or illusion that it can confront Iran in the region," Zarif told IRNA before ending his visit to Beijing.

Washington a year ago withdrew from a nuclear deal with Tehran and re-imposed sanctions, prompting a deterioration in relations.

But the crisis has deepened in recent week, with the US deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bomber to the Gulf over alleged threats from Iran.

Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-calls-ship-attacks-off-uae-alarming-urges-probe-218315">attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf</a>.

On Sunday, the United Arab Emirates said that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage off the UAE port of Fujairah.

A day later, Saudi Arabia said two of its oil tankers were damaged.

Fujairah port is the only terminal in the UAE located on the Arabian Sea coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, a global shipping route through which most Gulf oil exports pass, and which Iran has repeatedly threatened to close in case of a military confrontation with the United States.

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&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported. Tensions have escalated in recent days, with growing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. "There will be no war because neither we want a war, nor has anyone the idea or illusion that it can confront Iran in the region," Zarif told IRNA before ending his visit to Beijing. Washington a year ago withdrew from a nuclear deal with Tehran and re-imposed sanctions, prompting a deterioration in relations. But the crisis has deepened in recent week, with the US deploying an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bomber to the Gulf over alleged threats from Iran. Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf. On Sunday, the United Arab Emirates said that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage off the UAE port of Fujairah. A day later, Saudi Arabia said two of its oil tankers were damaged. Fujairah port is the only terminal in the UAE located on the Arabian Sea coast, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, a global shipping route through which most Gulf oil exports pass, and which Iran has repeatedly threatened to close in case of a military confrontation with the United States. ×

There will be no war, we don't want it and no one can confront Iran: Foreign Minister Javad Zarif

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday urged China and Russia to take "concrete action" to safeguard the 2015 nuclear deal as he warned of a "dangerous" situation amid rising tensions with the US.

Tensions have ratcheted up with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sending-carrier-bombers-to-mideast-is-psychological-warfare-iran-216721">US deploying an aircraft carrier group</a> and B-52 bombers to the Gulf last week over alleged threats from Iran.

On a visit to Beijing, Zarif said he would talk with Chinese officials about "bilateral ties and the very dangerous issues that are ongoing in our region today", according to a video published on the Iranian foreign ministry website.

Washington has deployed more troops in the Gulf, one of the world's most strategic waterways, in what US officials said was a reaction to photographs showing Iran had loaded missiles onto small traditional boats.

On Wednesday the US State Department ordered the evacuation of most personnel from the US embassy and consulate in Iraq, fearing an attack by Iranian-directed Shiite militias.

Iran on Thursday rejected negotiations with the US, but said it was showing "maximum restraint".

Amid escalating tensions in the region, Zarif has called on the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-supports-iran-nuclear-deal-may-talk-to-uss-pompeo-mogherini-218310"> international community to save the nuclear deal</a>, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA.

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Iran signed the deal with China, Russia, Germany, Britain, France and the United States. International sanctions were eased in return for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme.

But last year President Donald Trump walked away from the accord. The US has since then slapped sweeping sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

"So far the international community has mostly released statements rather than taking action," Zarif said.

"If the international community and other JCPOA member countries and our friends in the JCPOA like China and Russia want to keep this achievement, it is required that they make sure the Iranian people enjoy the benefits of the JCPOA with concrete actions," he added.

'Maximum pressure'

Zarif said last week that only Russia and China had supported Iran and helped it keep the nuclear deal going, and accused other parties to the agreement of letting Tehran down.

China was one of the eight global buyers -- India, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Italy and Greece -- that was allowed to import Iranian crude oil before the US ended waivers in early May.

Zarif's China trip comes after visits to Turkmenistan, India and Japan in the past week.

Despite Washington's campaign of "maximum pressure" against Iran, the Islamic Republic has vowed to keep selling oil to its main customers, especially China, even if it requires using indirect means.

On May 8, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Iran would stop observing restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water agreed under the nuclear deal in retaliation for the US withdrawal and the reimposition of sanctions.

In his announcement, Rouhani threatened to go further if the European members of the deal failed to start delivering on their promises to help Iran circumvent US sanctions within 60 days.

China in response called on all parties to uphold the nuclear deal in what it called a "shared responsibility".

European nations have also called on all partners to the deal to help salvage it while expressing frustration at Iran's demands for help in circumventing US sanctions.

One European diplomat called on China to buy Iranian oil as it is less exposed to the United States.

"They are now very exposed to the dollar but it is also a question of political choice," said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

"The reality for the Chinese is that they are in a global trade war with the Americans, they are in the middle of negotiations and they are not quite so sure if they want to load the boat," the diplomat added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday urged China and Russia to take "concrete action" to safeguard the 2015 nuclear deal as he warned of a "dangerous" situation amid rising tensions with the US.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday urged China and Russia to take "concrete action" to safeguard the 2015 nuclear deal as he warned of a "dangerous" situation amid rising tensions with the US. Tensions have ratcheted up with the US deploying an aircraft carrier group and B-52 bombers to the Gulf last week over alleged threats from Iran. On a visit to Beijing, Zarif said he would talk with Chinese officials about "bilateral ties and the very dangerous issues that are ongoing in our region today", according to a video published on the Iranian foreign ministry website. Washington has deployed more troops in the Gulf, one of the world's most strategic waterways, in what US officials said was a reaction to photographs showing Iran had loaded missiles onto small traditional boats. On Wednesday the US State Department ordered the evacuation of most personnel from the US embassy and consulate in Iraq, fearing an attack by Iranian-directed Shiite militias. Iran on Thursday rejected negotiations with the US, but said it was showing "maximum restraint". Amid escalating tensions in the region, Zarif has called on the international community to save the nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA. × Iran signed the deal with China, Russia, Germany, Britain, France and the United States. International sanctions were eased in return for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme. But last year President Donald Trump walked away from the accord. The US has since then slapped sweeping sanctions on Iran. "So far the international community has mostly released statements rather than taking action," Zarif said. "If the international community and other JCPOA member countries and our friends in the JCPOA like China and Russia want to keep this achievement, it is required that they make sure the Iranian people enjoy the benefits of the JCPOA with concrete actions," he added. 'Maximum pressure' Zarif said last week that only Russia and China had supported Iran and helped it keep the nuclear deal going, and accused other parties to the agreement of letting Tehran down. China was one of the eight global buyers -- India, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Italy and Greece -- that was allowed to import Iranian crude oil before the US ended waivers in early May. Zarif's China trip comes after visits to Turkmenistan, India and Japan in the past week. Despite Washington's campaign of "maximum pressure" against Iran, the Islamic Republic has vowed to keep selling oil to its main customers, especially China, even if it requires using indirect means. On May 8, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Iran would stop observing restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water agreed under the nuclear deal in retaliation for the US withdrawal and the reimposition of sanctions. In his announcement, Rouhani threatened to go further if the European members of the deal failed to start delivering on their promises to help Iran circumvent US sanctions within 60 days. China in response called on all parties to uphold the nuclear deal in what it called a "shared responsibility". European nations have also called on all partners to the deal to help salvage it while expressing frustration at Iran's demands for help in circumventing US sanctions. One European diplomat called on China to buy Iranian oil as it is less exposed to the United States. "They are now very exposed to the dollar but it is also a question of political choice," said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The reality for the Chinese is that they are in a global trade war with the Americans, they are in the middle of negotiations and they are not quite so sure if they want to load the boat," the diplomat added.

Iran urges China, Russia 'concrete action' to save nuclear deal

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran.

The USS Arlington, which transports marines, amphibious vehicles, conventional landing craft and rotary aircraft, and the Patriot air defence system will join the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/b-52-bombers-to-be-part-of-us-forces-sent-to-middle-east-over-iran-concerns-216934"> B-52 bomber task force</a> headed toward the Gulf after intelligence reports suggested Iran was planning some sort of attack in the region.

The deployment is "in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests," the Pentagon said in a statement.

"The Department of Defense continues to closely monitor the activities of the Iranian regime, their military and proxies," it said.

"The United States does not seek conflict with Iran, but we are postured and ready to defend US forces and interests in the region."

On Sunday US President Donald Trump's national security advisor John Bolton announced the deployment of the Lincoln group and bombers saying he wanted to send a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran about any attack against the US or its partners in the region.&nbsp;

Washington though has not elaborated on the alleged threat, drawing criticism that it is overreacting and unnecessarily driving up tensions in the region.

Iran dismissed the deployment of the Lincoln as old news but followed it with an announcement that it would suspend some of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year.

Amid the rising tensions, Trump said Thursday he is open to talks with Tehran's leadership.

"What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House.

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran.

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran. The USS Arlington, which transports marines, amphibious vehicles, conventional landing craft and rotary aircraft, and the Patriot air defence system will join the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a B-52 bomber task force headed toward the Gulf after intelligence reports suggested Iran was planning some sort of attack in the region. The deployment is "in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests," the Pentagon said in a statement. "The Department of Defense continues to closely monitor the activities of the Iranian regime, their military and proxies," it said. "The United States does not seek conflict with Iran, but we are postured and ready to defend US forces and interests in the region." On Sunday US President Donald Trump's national security advisor John Bolton announced the deployment of the Lincoln group and bombers saying he wanted to send a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran about any attack against the US or its partners in the region. Washington though has not elaborated on the alleged threat, drawing criticism that it is overreacting and unnecessarily driving up tensions in the region. Iran dismissed the deployment of the Lincoln as old news but followed it with an announcement that it would suspend some of its commitments under the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year. Amid the rising tensions, Trump said Thursday he is open to talks with Tehran's leadership. "What I would like to see with Iran, I would like to see them call me," Trump told reporters at the White House.

US builds deterrent force against possible Iranian attack; sends assault ship, missiles to Mideast

The U.S. Navy released video on Thursday (May 9) showing fighter planes taking off and landing aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln as it makes its way to the Middle East over what Washington describes as threats from Iran.

US Navy releases video of USS Lincoln strike group headed to Mideast

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