US deploys additional Navy ships and Marines to Middle East amidst Iranian threats.
The U.S. Military Responds to Iranian Threats in the Middle East
The U.S. military is taking action in response to recent Iranian attempts to seize commercial vessels in the Middle East. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has approved the deployment of additional warships and thousands of Marines to the Gulf region, strengthening the forces already in place.
“U.S. Central Command is committed to defending freedom of navigation within our area of responsibility which includes some of the most important waterways in the world,” said Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, the command’s leader.
“These additional forces provide unique capabilities, which alongside our partner nations in the region, further safeguard the free flow of international commerce and uphold the rules-based international order, and deter Iranian destabilizing activities in the region.”
Deployment Details
The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, consisting of the Bataan amphibious assault ship, the Mesa Verde amphibious transport dock ship, and the Carter Hall dock landing ship, will be heading to the Middle East. They will be accompanied by the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, totaling approximately 2,500 troops.
In addition to this deployment, Defense Secretary Austin has also ordered the USS Thomas Hudner, F-35 fighters, and F-16s to be deployed, further strengthening the U.S. presence in the region.
Recent Iranian Aggression
Iranian naval forces have recently made multiple attempts to seize commercial vessels in the region. On July 5, an Iranian vessel approached the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker TRF Moss, but retreated when the U.S. Navy arrived. Later that day, another Iranian vessel harassed the Bahamian-flagged oil tanker Richmond Voyager and opened fire at it.
Over the past two years, Iran has been responsible for attacking, seizing, or attempting to seize nearly 20 internationally flagged merchant vessels in the region.
The deployment of additional warships and Marines demonstrates the U.S. military’s commitment to defending freedom of navigation and deterring Iranian aggression in the Middle East.
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