The United States has accelerated the deployment of amphibious ships and Marines toward the Middle East as fighting with Iran continues, according to NBC and Newsmax. The reports say an amphibious task group led by the USS Boxer will leave the US West Coast a day earlier than planned. It is expected to sail with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, which includes at least 2,200 personnel, along with the USS Portland and USS Comstock. Reports Dw.com.
According to the reports, the ships are expected to carry F-35 fighter jets, missiles and equipment for a possible landing operation. NBC said as many as 4,000 service members could be involved in the broader transfer. The move comes amid growing discussion in Washington about whether the military campaign against Iran could expand beyond air and naval operations.
Reuters ранее reported that the administration of President Donald Trump is considering several scenarios, including sending thousands of additional troops to the region, using force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and possibly deploying ground units to Khark Island, a key hub for Iranian oil exports. Trump has publicly said he is not sending extra troops, while adding that the US will do what is necessary to keep the situation under control.
The latest developments follow the first US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28. Since then, Tehran has launched missile and drone attacks across the Gulf region and toward Israel, and has claimed control over the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting traffic through one of the world’s most important energy routes.
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