The United States is reportedly sending three additional amphibious assault ships and roughly 2,500 more marines to the Middle East, even as President Donald Trump hints at winding down military operations. The deployment comes amid escalating hostilities with Iran, including threats to attack recreational sites worldwide and ongoing airstrikes and drone attacks across the region.
According to reports, Washington is considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran's strategically vital Kharg Island, which handles about 90% of Iranian oil exports. Any such move would carry significant risks, as the small island is vulnerable to Iranian drone and rocket fire. Trump, however, has sent mixed signals, first ruling out a ceasefire and later suggesting the US is close to meeting its objectives.
On Friday, Trump criticised NATO allies as 'cowards' for refusing to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the US has won the military fight against Iran. The Pentagon has already deployed the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and the assault ship USS Boxer is leaving early, though specific missions remain unclear.
The conflict showed no signs of abating, with an Iranian drone attack hitting a Kuwait refinery and US-Israeli strikes burning 16 Iranian cargo vessels. Explosions also shook Dubai as air defences intercepted rockets during Eid al-Fitr. Israel additionally attacked Syrian government positions, complicating regional dynamics.
