A United States Marine unit comprising 2,200 personnel has been ordered to head towards the Middle East, according to two US officials cited by ABC News.
The deployment involves the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is normally stationed in Japan and primarily operates in the Indo-Pacific region. The move marks a temporary redeployment of the unit to the Middle East.
Officials stressed that the deployment does not necessarily indicate that the Marines are intended for ground operations in Iran. However, the unit brings with it land, amphibious, and air capabilities that could be made available to military commanders if required.
The force also includes a squadron of Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and a squadron of Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey, providing additional airlift and operational flexibility.
The deployment underscores Washington’s commitment to maintaining readiness in the region amid escalating tensions, although officials have not specified any immediate operational objectives.