Pentagon deploys USS Tripoli and 2,500 Marines to Middle East amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

The U.S. Department of Defense is deploying the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli, along with approximately 2,500 Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, to the Middle East in response to rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.

A U.S. official confirmed to Fox News that the Pentagon is sending the Japan-based ship, which is expected to arrive in the region within one to two weeks.

The Wall Street Journal, citing U.S. officials, reported that the deployment follows increased Iranian attacks affecting shipping in the strait. The troop increase proposal came from U.S. Central Command and was approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Officials said the Pentagon is considering additional warships to escort oil tankers and commercial vessels through the strait, though such operations may be delayed until threats subside. Tensions have disrupted maritime traffic, delaying hundreds of cargo ships.

CNN reported that U.S. officials told Congress members in briefings that the possibility of the strait closing after U.S. and Israeli military strikes was not fully accounted for in initial planning.

Hegseth stated there is no clear evidence of Iran laying naval mines in the strait, despite reports of some mines being deployed there.