US to send three more warships and thousands more troops to Middle East, reports say
US to send three more warships and thousands more troops to Middle East, reports say
Reports suggest the United States is set to deploy additional military assets, including three more warships and thousands of troops, to the Middle East. The move comes amid escalating tensions as Donald Trump criticized NATO allies for their reluctance to assist in opening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage. Concerns about the economic fallout from the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel against Iran have intensified, with fears of prolonged disruption to global oil supplies.
Iran threatens retaliation against US and Israeli forces
According to recent disclosures by American news outlets, Washington is exploring options to occupy or blockade Iran’s Kharg Island, a strategically significant hub for oil exports. The island, located just 16 miles from Bushehr and covering 8 square miles, serves as a critical link for Iran’s fossil fuel trade, with nearly 90% of its oil leaving via this terminal. Any attempt to seize control of such a key asset could face strong resistance from Iran, which has warned of global consequences.
“We are watching your cowardly officials and commanders, pilots and wicked soldiers,” said Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesperson for Iran’s armed forces, as reported by state television. “From now on, based on the information we have on you, the promenades, resorts and tourist and entertainment centres in the world will not be safe.”
Trump has ruled out a ceasefire with Iran, emphasizing Washington’s dominance in the three-week conflict. “I don’t want to do a ceasefire. You know you don’t do a ceasefire when you’re literally obliterating the other side,” he stated during a press briefing at the White House. The president also shared a message on his social media platform, claiming the war has been “militarily won” and criticizing NATO for avoiding risks.
“Without the U.S.A., NATO IS A PAPER TIGER! They didn’t want to join the fight to stop a Nuclear Powered Iran. Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t want to help open the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so little risk. COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”
The Pentagon has already sent the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a rapid-response force of approximately 2,200 marines, to the region. However, details about their specific roles remain unclear. The USS Boxer, carrying the unit, departed the US earlier than planned, raising questions about its purpose. Military officials have not confirmed the objectives, despite the administration’s focus on pressuring Tehran.
Despite Trump’s earlier claims of avoiding “boots on the ground,” the current strategy includes a more aggressive military presence. A White House official noted: “As President Trump said, he has no plans to send troops anywhere – but he wisely does not broadcast his military strategy to the media, and he retains all options as commander-in-chief. The United States military can take out Kharg Island at any time.”
Meanwhile, hostilities showed no signs of easing on Friday. An Iranian drone strike targeted a Kuwaiti refinery, while the US and Israel launched attacks on 16 cargo vessels in Gulf ports. A local representative from Hormozgan province stated: “Following the American-Zionist air attack, at least 16 cargo vessels belonging to citizens of the towns of Bandar Lengeh and Bandar Kong were completely burned in the fire.”
Heavy explosions also rocked Dubai as air defenses intercepted incoming rockets, coinciding with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The situation underscores the unpredictable nature of the conflict, with its effects expanding beyond initial expectations.