US expands Middle East military presence amid rising Israel-Iran tensions

The US military is significantly ramping up its deployments in the Middle East in response to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, underscoring its commitment to defending its long-time ally.

The increase in US military presence reflects heightened concerns about potential regional conflict and Iranian retaliation following recent high-profile assassinations, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

As of now, the US maintains a substantial military presence in the Middle East, with approximately 45,000 personnel stationed across various bases, alongside a robust array of air and naval assets. This includes the deployment of additional troops and equipment following the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukr in Lebanon, events that have exacerbated regional tensions.

Historically, the US military's role in the Middle East has been extensive. At its peak in 2007, the US had 160,000 troops in Iraq and over 100,000 in Afghanistan by 2011. Although troop numbers have decreased in recent years, the US has recently reinforced its regional presence due to the intensified conflict surrounding Israel and Gaza.

The largest US base in the region is Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, established in 1996. It serves as the headquarters for the US Central Command (CENTCOM) and houses approximately 8,000 personnel. In Bahrain, the US 5th Fleet headquarters, which hosts around 9,000 personnel, plays a crucial role in naval operations. Kuwait, which was a key logistical hub during the 2003 Iraq War, currently accommodates 13,500 US troops. The United Arab Emirates, another strategic partner, hosts about 3,500 US military personnel and provides essential ports for the US Navy.

Jordan, a critical ally in the region, hosts around 3,000 American troops. Despite a deadly attack on its Tower 22 base by Iranian-backed Iraqi militias in January, Jordan's strategic location and strong ties with the US and UK make it vital for intelligence operations in Syria and Iraq. Additionally, over 2,700 US troops are stationed in Saudi Arabia to train and advise its armed forces and protect US interests from Iranian threats. Oman, with a few hundred air force personnel, and other smaller deployments across the region contributes to the broader US military strategy.

In Israel, the US maintains a secretive Site 512 base, which is crucial for radar surveillance against ballistic missile threats. American troops also support Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system at Nevatim Airbase in the Negev Desert.

In response to the recent escalation, the Pentagon has announced the deployment of additional warships and aircraft to the Middle East. This includes 18 American ships in the region, such as the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, three guided missile destroyers (USS Lassen, USS Farragut, USS Forrest Sherman), and the guided missile cruiser USS Normandy. The US has also planned to deploy two aircraft carriers, the USS Gerald Ford and USS Eisenhower, along with support ships and approximately 2,000 marines following the start of Israel's assault on Gaza on October 7.

The Pentagon has further ordered the deployment of additional fighter jets to bolster the existing A-10, F-15, and F-16 fleets in the region. These measures are part of a broader strategy to enhance US capabilities and support its regional allies amid the ongoing crisis.