US Deploys 3,000 Troops and Warships to Red Sea Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

The United States has deployed over 3,000 military personnel, along with two warships, to the Red Sea in response to tanker seizures by Iran, according to the US Navy. This deployment adds to the growing US military buildup in the region, and comes after Iran's alleged seizure or attempted seizure of nearly 20 internationally flagged ships in the area over the past two years.

The US sailors and Marines entered the Red Sea after transiting through the Suez Canal and arrived on board the USS Bataan and USS Carter Hall warships. The deployment is part of efforts to deter destabilizing activity and de-escalate tensions caused by Iran's harassment and seizures of merchant vessels.

In response, Iran has accused the US of inflaming regional instability, with Iranian officials stating that the country has reached a level of strength and power that can reciprocate any aggressive acts by the US, such as seizing ships.

This recent deployment follows Washington's announcement that it had blocked two attempts by Iran to seize commercial tankers in international waters off Oman on July 5. And in April and May, Iran seized two oil tankers within a week in regional waters.

The US has also recently disclosed plans to deploy a destroyer, F-35 and F-16 warplanes, along with the Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit, to the Middle East to deter future attempts by Iran to seize ships in the Gulf.

Currently, Washington is evaluating options to put armed personnel on commercial ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, in order to prevent further Iranian seizures and harassment of civilian vessels. Although no final decision has been made, this potential move represents an unprecedented commitment by US forces in the region.