Israel (now broader Mid East discussion)

DaveXA said
While we don't "need" them, having access does make a huge difference in terms of logistics and being able to hit Iran if it comes to that.

That said, unless Iran starts launching nukes, or lobbing more of those ballistic missiles into Israeli cities, I don't see us taking direct militaey action on Iran.

Certainly sanctions and other diplomatic avenues are on the table before we engage in a shooting war with Iran proper.

Edit: And it's a lot more than just hitting Iran.

Logistics isn't issue. The B2's and B52's can easily hit Iran from any base in the U.S. with tanker support that can launch with them. We also have 2 Carrier battle groups within range that have 4 squadrons of fighter/bombers and a squadron of electronic attack 18's each. We don't need the bases in Saudi Arabia.