WASHINGTON: The United States is expected to deploy thousands of more troops to the Middle East, including soldiers from its elite 82nd Airborne Division, even as Washington signals openness to diplomatic talks with Iran, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday.
The sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Pentagon was preparing to send the troops from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, although the exact destination and timeline of the deployment have not been disclosed.
According to the sources cited by Reuters, no decision has been made to deploy US forces into Iran.
However, the move is intended to strengthen operational capacity in the region and prepare for potential future contingencies.
The US military referred queries to the White House, which did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to Reuters.
The expected deployment follows a broader military build-up.
Last week, thousands of US Marines and sailors were deployed aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer, along with its Marine Expeditionary Unit and accompanying warships.
More troop deployments reported
Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported that around 3,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division are set to be deployed, with a formal order expected imminently.
The newspaper also said thousands of US Marines are due to arrive in the Middle East on Friday, citing two US officials.
The deployment is expected to coincide with a deadline set by President Donald Trump for Iran to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
According to the report, the Japan-based amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli, the amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans, and approximately 2,200 Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are set to enter the area of responsibility of US Central Command on Friday.
It could take several days for the forces to reach the Strait of Hormuz, according to Reuters.
The troop movements come a day after Trump postponed threats to strike Iranian power plants, saying there had been “productive” talks with Tehran.
