US Expands Military Presence in Middle East as Regional Tensions Rise
Forces Begin Moving Toward Strategic Region
The United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East as preparations continue for possible operations, according to a report by the The Wall Street Journal. The report also notes that American and Iranian representatives are holding discussions in Pakistan.
Fighter Jets and Troops Already Deployed
Based on flight-tracking data and statements from an unnamed US official, fighter jets and attack aircraft have already arrived in the region. In addition, the official said the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division may deploy between 1,500 and 2,000 soldiers within the coming days.
Naval Forces Move Toward the Region
The report further states that thousands of sailors and Marines are also being sent to the area as part of the broader military movement.
A US Navy official confirmed that the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and its strike group left Virginia in late March and are currently operating in the Atlantic Ocean.
Separately, the USS Boxer and its escort vessels, carrying the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, departed California in mid-March and are now sailing in the Pacific. Officials expect both naval groups to reach the region in over a week.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE