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The United States is deploying an amphibious assault ship along with thousands of Marines and sailors to the Middle East, U.S. officials have confirmed, as tensions with Iran continue to escalate.
The move comes as Washington responds to the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict, now approaching its fourth week.
Officials said the additional troops are being sent aboard a large naval vessel, though their exact mission has not been disclosed.
The deployment follows earlier reports that the U.S. was weighing a range of military options, including potential operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively shut since the conflict began.
Oil prices have surged sharply since the outbreak of hostilities, raising concerns about global economic stability. U.S. President Donald Trump also criticised allied nations for declining to assist in reopening the strategic waterway, warning that their stance would not be forgotten.
Meanwhile, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, called for national unity and resistance in a message marking the Persian New Year, Nowruz.
Despite the ongoing conflict, the region continues to observe major celebrations, including Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.
Energy markets remain volatile, with Brent crude trading near $110 per barrel after earlier spikes driven by fears of prolonged disruption.
