The United States is preparing to send about 9,000 additional troops and a third aircraft carrier to the Middle East as President Donald Trump weighs resuming large-scale military action against Iran.
The move could push the number of US personnel in the region above 20,000.
According to The Washington Post, the Pentagon is preparing options that could place as many as three aircraft carriers and their accompanying warships in the region.
US forces prepare for possible buildup
The Associated Press reported that the additional forces would include sailors and Marines aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group and the USS Makin Island amphibious readiness group.
The Roosevelt is expected to relieve the USS George Washington, while the USS George H.W. Bush is already in the region.
The potential deployment would significantly increase US naval and military strength in the Middle East, with the force potentially including aircraft carriers, escort warships, fighter aircraft and amphibious forces.
The buildup comes as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran remain stalled, while Trump has indicated that military action against Iran could resume after the November 3 midterm elections.
Trump said on Thursday that Iran could face further military action if its government failed to meet US demands.
‘Either they’ll do something very proper and smart, or they won’t be around very long,’ Trump said in Denton, Texas.
Iran prepares for possible renewed attacks
Iran, meanwhile, is preparing for a stronger response should Washington resume large-scale attacks.
Reuters reported that Iranian leaders have instructed allied groups across the Middle East to prepare for a coordinated response that could extend beyond the region, while diplomatic efforts continue.
Iranian military officials have also said the country is prepared to confront renewed US attacks, warning that any fresh aggression would trigger a stronger response.
Energy and shipping concerns grow
The military buildup has also renewed concerns over energy supplies and shipping in the region.
Oil prices jumped on Thursday following reports of the US deployment, with Brent crude settling above US$102 a barrel.
The potential deployment comes as the conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran in February, enters a prolonged phase marked by intermittent fighting and stalled diplomatic efforts.
