The Washington Post, citing multiple U.S. government officials, reported that the Pentagon is set to deploy several thousand additional military personnel to the Middle East in the coming days.
According to the report, around 6,000 troops aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush, along with several escort warships, are being dispatched to the region. These forces, along with an additional 4,200 Marines, are expected to reach the Middle East by the end of the month.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, when asked about the deployment, said that President Donald Trump:
“…has wisely kept all options on the table in the event that the Iranians will not forgo their nuclear ambitions and make a deal that is acceptable to the United States.”
Two U.S. officials told The Washington Post that as the naval blockade of Iran continues, military leaders are preparing for a possible escalation of the conflict, including potential ground operations on Iranian territory.
As part of the ongoing maritime blockade, a Chinese-owned cargo ship named the “Fuxing” was forced to alter its course and turn back on April 15, 2026, after attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Reports suggest significant disruption to shipping traffic in the region. U.S. officials say these measures have effectively stopped maritime trade with Iran. While several vessels have tried to move through the Strait of Hormuz, they were intercepted by U.S. forces and made to retreat.
In contrast, Iranian domestic media, including the IRGC-affiliated Fars News Agency, has reported that ships are continuing to pass through the Strait and reach Iranian ports.
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