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U.S. to deploy thousands more troops and at least one more ship to the Middle East: Report

The deployment aims to strengthen U.S. military presence to counter Iranian threats and secure key shipping lanes, with over 15,000 enemy targets struck since conflict began.

  • On Friday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved a U.S. Central Command request to deploy roughly 2,500 Marines and the Japan-based USS Tripoli amphibious assault ship to the Middle East as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
  • After Iran intensified missile and drone attacks on the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global shipping nearly two weeks into the conflict, CENTCOM requested the amphibious reinforcement to expand operational options.
  • U.S. and Israeli strikes have hit roughly 6,000 targets in Iran, while U.S. forces have sustained 13 service members killed and roughly 140 wounded. The 31st MEU includes about 1,100 ground combat Marines and supporting logistics units.
  • Officials say the deployment expands commanders' military options without committing to ground invasion. Quinnipiac polling shows 53% of registered voters oppose military action while 40% approve, with 74% fearing rising energy prices.
  • Sailing from Sasebo, Japan, the USS Tripoli remains over a week away from Iranian waters, accompanied by a combat logistics battalion capable of sustaining operations for up to 15 days amid reported contingency planning for raids or seizing Kharg Island.
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273 Articles

Center

The additional troops mobilized have training and equipment for ground operations. More information: Ormuz's bill: why cocoa and aluminum rise more than gold in Iran's war

·Spain
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Lean Right

The United States is increasing its troop presence in the Middle East, deploying the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli following President Donald Trump's announcement of a major offensive against Iran in the coming days.

Lean Left

According to media reports, the U.S. military is moving more warships and 2,500 naval infantry to the Middle East to be capable of ground operations.

·Germany
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Forbes broke the news in United States on Friday, March 13, 2026.
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