U.S. increases military readiness amid escalating Middle East tensions

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States has stepped up military readiness and sent additional forces to the Middle East as tensions with Iran and security incidents around the Strait of Hormuz continue.

The Pentagon is sending about 10,000 sailors and Marines to the region, Bloomberg reported. The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt left San Diego for the Middle East, and the USS Makin Island amphibious group sailed with 2,200 Marines. If the Roosevelt arrives, the U.S. could again have three carrier strike groups in the region.

Axios reported that the Pentagon told U.S. Central Command to finish preparing for a possible return to major combat operations against Iran, without setting a date. “The Department’s job is to develop and present military options to the President,” a Pentagon official said.

Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz remains under threat. Senior Iranian officials told Reuters that Iran is using new tactics against vessels, and a maritime monitor warned that ships still face attacks.

Talks to end the conflict remain deadlocked, with control of the strait among the main points of dispute.