U.S. Bolsters Military Presence in the Middle East Amid Escalating Tensions
By TARA COPP, Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a strategic move responding to Israel’s military actions against Iran and potential Iranian retaliation, the United States is reallocating military assets in the Middle East. The USS Thomas Hudner, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, is en route to the Eastern Mediterranean, while another destroyer is being positioned for potential deployment at the request of the White House.
President Donald Trump convened with National Security Council officials to assess the developing situation. Military personnel in the region have been on heightened alert, with precautionary measures including voluntary departures of military dependents from bases.
Currently, about 30,000 U.S. troops are stationed in the Middle East, a number that swelled to 43,000 last October amid escalating tensions due to ongoing conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and Iranian-backed factions in Yemen.
The USS Thomas Hudner is equipped to defend against missile threats, demonstrating the U.S. commitment to bolstering regional security. On October 1, 2024, U.S. destroyers effectively defended Israel from over 200 missiles launched by Iran, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region.
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