The US is deploying about 5,000 troops to the Middle East to expand military options in the context of the Iran-related operation entering its 3rd week.
According to many US media outlets, the deployed force includes about 2,500 marines and 2,500 sailors. 3 US officials said the troop increase was implemented at the request of the US Central Command.
According to officials, the war plan from the beginning has considered the possibility of deploying marines to provide additional action options if the conflict expands.
Among the deployed soldiers, more than 2,000 soldiers belong to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit stationed in Okinawa, Japan. This is the only US expeditionary unit deployed permanently abroad.
This force combines with naval sailors to form the Landing Readiness Group and the Marine Expeditionary Unit. These units are trained to respond quickly in crisis situations, such as evacuating civilians from dangerous areas, protecting US diplomatic missions or controlling the area before other forces are deployed.
The sailors accompanying this force belong to the Tripoli Amphibious Assault Group, including 3 warships USS Tripoli, USS San Diego and USS New Orleans. The ships previously operated in the Philippine Sea and are currently moving west to the Middle East.
The transfer of forces from the Indo-Pacific region to the Persian Gulf has raised concerns about the security situation among some US allies in the region.
This move comes as Iran intensifies attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping route through which about 20% of global crude oil passes.
Some news agencies also said that the US is considering a plan to transfer part of the missile defense system from South Korea to the Middle East.
At the same time, US President Donald Trump declared that the war with Iran would last "as long as it is necessary". On social media, he said US forces had destroyed military targets on Iran's Kharg Island but had not attacked oil infrastructure.
Mr. Donald Trump warned Washington could change its decision if Iran or any force obstructs ships from moving freely through the Strait of Hormuz.
In the context of sharply rising world oil prices, the US administration is also considering using naval ships to escort commercial ships passing through this sea route to ensure maritime safety.
