US media outlets say a US military amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli and a Marine expeditionary unit with 5000 marines both based in Japan, are being sent to the Middle East.
The US-Israeli military operation against Iran has continued since February 28. In retaliation for US-Israeli strikes on Iran, Tehran has attacked US bases and other facilities in countries in the Persian Gulf, inflicting growing damage on them.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday that the US Defense Department is moving additional Marines and warships to the Middle East as Iran is stepping up attacks on the Strait of Hormuz. It said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has approved a request from the US Central Command, which covers the Middle East.
The report quoted US officials as saying that the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli is now headed for the Middle East. The Tripoli is stationed in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture in southwestern Japan.
Meanwhile, ABC News said the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is deployed in Okinawa Prefecture, southern Japan, has been ordered to head to the Middle East. The unit is expected to be on board the Tripoli.
The unit’s mission includes using its squadron of F-35 fighter jets as well as protecting US expatriates.
The ABC report said, “Its deployment does not mean that the unit is going to be used as a ground force for use in Iran, but it offers land, amphibious and aviation assets that can be available to military commanders if needed.”
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