Washington Sends More Forces to the Middle East as Iran War Risks Escalation

2026, October 2

United States / Iran / Gulf states

The United States is deploying about 9,000 additional troops and a third aircraft carrier to the Middle East as President Donald Trump weighs renewed attacks on Iran. The deployment could bring the number of U.S. personnel in the region above 20,000 by late October. Trump has suggested military action could intensify if the latest diplomatic efforts fail.

The move comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains under severe pressure. Three oil tankers were struck by projectiles while transiting the strait earlier this week, while September LNG shipments through Hormuz nevertheless reached their highest level since the U.S.-Iran war began.