The United States has intensified its military presence in the Middle East with the deployment of a major naval force, raising fresh concerns over a possible wider conflict involving Iran and its allies.
According to reports, the USS Tripoli, carrying United States sailors and marines, has arrived in the region under the supervision of the United States Central Command.
The amphibious vessel operates as the lead ship of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, with about 3,500 troops as well as transport and fighter aircraft onboard.
Military analysts note that the latest deployment is aimed at strengthening Washington’s strategic position as it weighs possible operations around Iran’s oil export routes and the Strait of Hormuz.
Available intelligence suggests that the United States is considering moves to secure Iran’s nuclear materials and target key locations including Kharg Island, Larak Island and Abu Musa, alongside potential strikes on energy and nuclear sites.
In a fresh twist, Yemen’s Houthi movement confirmed launching ballistic missile attacks on Israeli military targets, marking its entry into the conflict.
A group spokesperson said the attacks would continue until their objectives are achieved, adding that operations would persist across multiple fronts.
Across Gulf states, Iran carried out retaliatory strikes, with drones hitting Port of Salalah in Oman, leaving a worker injured and damaging equipment.
Authorities in Kuwait also reported drone attacks that disrupted radar systems at the international airport, while Emirates Global Aluminium confirmed damage to its facility in Al Taweelah.
Reacting strongly, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian criticised the use of some Muslim countries’ territories for attacks on Iran, warning that the conflict could spread further across the region.
The Iranian leader also accused opposing forces of striking during diplomatic engagements, citing attacks on infrastructure and targeted killings.
His statement followed recent strikes by Israel on nuclear related facilities in Iran, including sites in Khondab and Ardakan.
In its response, Russia warned that the situation could escalate further, raising fears of possible radioactive contamination.
Russian officials urged the International Atomic Energy Agency to address what it described as a serious threat, insisting that the attacks violate international law and require strong global condemnation.
Background of the story, tensions involving the United States, Iran and Israel have grown in recent months over Iran’s nuclear programme and security issues in the Gulf, with repeated military actions increasing fears of a broader regional war.
