The United States is sending thousands of Marines and sailors to the Middle East as tensions with Iran continue to grow.
The deployment includes the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer along with its Marine unit and supporting warships.
Around 2,500 Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are being sent from the US West Coast, about three weeks earlier than planned.
With this, the total number of US troops in the region will rise to around 50,000, and there will be two Marine units ready for quick operations.
Officials said no final decision has been made to send troops into Iran. However, the current deployment gives the US more options if the situation worsens.
President Donald Trump said earlier that he is not sending troops “anywhere,” but also made it clear that he would not share details of any plans.
The focus remains on securing the Strait of Hormuz, which handles a large share of the world’s oil supply.
US forces have increased their operations in the area, targeting Iranian fast boats and drones that could threaten commercial shipping.
There are also discussions about possible action near Iran’s Kharg Island, which is used to export most of the country’s oil.
Additionally, the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford is heading to Greece for repairs after spending over nine months on deployment.
The US Navy plans to send the USS George H.W. Bush to replace it and maintain its presence in the region.
References: Reuters, TOI
Full report available at the source: