US-Iran war: Trump sending 9000 troops to Middle East
The US military is deploying 9,000 additional troops and multiple carrier strike groups to the Middle East. President Trump has suggested the possibility of intensified bombing in Iran following the upcoming midterm elections.
Why it matters
This significant naval buildup signals a potential escalation in US-Iran tensions and highlights the volatility of regional military strategy.
- 9.40pm . First published at 8.57pm
shares Share article The United States military is deploying about 9000 troops to the Middle East aboard warships as President Donald Trump considers fresh attacks against Iran.
The group of ships heading to the Middle East together carry more than 7000 sailors and 2000 US Marines.
President Donald Trump speaks with reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, on Thursday, October 1. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
It includes the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group, which recently deployed with the cruiser USS Chosin, and the USS Makin Island amphibious readiness group, which includes the USS John P Murtha and USS Anchorage amphibious landing ships.
The three carriers could arrive in the region by late October, according to the US official who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations.
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