Over 3,500 U.S. Troops Deploy to Middle East as Iran Conflict Escalates

28/03/2026

Over 3,500 U.S. Troops Deploy to Middle East as Iran Conflict Escalates

CENTRAL COMMAND, Mar 28: More than 3,500 U.S. troops, including about 2,500 Marines aboard the USS Tripoli, have arrived in the Middle East as the Iran conflict intensifies, U.S. officials confirmed on Saturday.

U.S. Central Command said the USS Tripoli, flagship of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, has entered its area of responsibility, bringing with it transport and strike aircraft, including F-35-capable operations, Ospreys, and amphibious assault assets. The vessel had been previously stationed in Japan before being redeployed nearly two weeks ago.

Officials said additional naval assets, including the USS Boxer and accompanying ships along with another Marine Expeditionary Unit, have also been ordered to the region from San Diego, further strengthening U.S. military presence.

CENTCOM reported that more than 11,000 targets have been struck since Operation “Epic Fury” began on 28 February, as air and missile strikes continue across the region.

The deployment comes amid heightened regional tensions, following recent missile and drone attacks, including strikes on Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan air base that injured U.S. personnel.

U.S. officials stated that forces in the region are intended to provide “maximum flexibility” and operational options, while noting that no ground troop deployment is currently planned as part of ongoing strategy.