US deploys amphibious assault ships to Middle East

The United States has deployed amphibious naval forces to the Middle East, with US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirming the arrival of two large amphibious assault ships in the region.

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, CENTCOM said the USS Boxer (LHD 4) and USS Portland (LPD 27), carrying the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, are now operating in the Middle East as part of a scheduled deployment.

"USS Boxer (LHD 4) and USS Portland (LPD 27) sail in formation while transiting the Indian Ocean, June 30, 2026. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are currently operating in the Middle East as part of a scheduled deployment. The Boxer ARG includes USS Comstock (LSD 45), which arrived in the region in early May," the post reads.

By Tamilla Hasanova