At least one U.S. Navy warship carrying more than 2,000 Marines is on its way to the Middle East, signaling an additional military buildup in the area and fueling speculation about American ground forces being deployed in Iran.Satellite images showed the USS Tripoli (LHA 7), an America-class amphibious assault ship, and two escort ships were traveling southwest across the South China Sea on March 15. The warship was spotted near Singapore a day later.
The Tripoli is carrying personnel from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, or MEU, a rapid-response force of about 2,200 Marines and Navy sailors based in Okinawa, Japan. The MEU contains ground and aerial combat units.
A number of news sources reported the deployment, citing unidentified U.S. officials. It's unclear whether the Tripoli's two escort ships will continue to the Middle East.
The Pentagon hasn’t officially said how many U.S. service members are part of the Iran war. News reports put the number at 40,000 to 50,000.
The Pentagon hasn’t officially said how many U.S. service members are part of the Iran war. News reports put the number at 40,000 to 50,000.