Photo: EPA
The United States is accelerating the deployment of several thousand additional Marines to the Middle East, sending extra amphibious ships to strengthen the force engaged in operations against Iran, according to NBC News citing sources.
In particular, the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, consisting of at least 2,200 Marines, is expected to depart from San Diego in the coming days — earlier than originally planned. The unit will be deployed aboard the USS Boxer, accompanied by at least one or possibly two additional vessels.
Newsmax also reports that more U.S. ships and Marines are heading to the Middle East. According to its sources, the USS Boxer will be escorted by the USS Portland and the USS Comstock.
Around 4,000 service members are onboard the three amphibious ships, including approximately 2,500 Marines. The vessels are equipped with F-35 Lightning II jets, missiles, and amphibious assault equipment designed for ground operations.
The USS Boxer is set to join the USS Tripoli, which is already heading to the region. They are expected to be joined soon by the USS New Orleans and the USS Rushmore, based in Japan.
In total, six amphibious ships will deliver approximately 8,000 troops to the Middle East, including between 4,000 and 5,000 Marines.
The deployment comes amid discussions about whether the U.S. might attempt to seize strategically important Iranian islands tied to Tehran’s oil industry.
The new ships are being sent after the USS Gerald R. Ford, previously deployed in the region, encountered serious issues and is now heading for repairs following a reported onboard fire.
Analysts note that the dynamics and potential outcome of the emerging conflict in the Middle East will be shaped in the coming weeks. The situation is evolving contrary to earlier optimistic expectations expressed by Donald Trump, who had reportedly envisioned the campaign against Iran as a limited operation.
A prolonged war of attrition could carry significant political and strategic risks for the U.S. administration, both internationally and domestically.
