US Deploys 2,500 Marines To Strait Of Hormuz Amid Attacks On Ships

Last Updated:March 13, 2026, 22:35 IST

The US is deploying a Marine unit to the Middle East due to Iran's attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The United States Department of Defense is deploying a Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East as tensions rise following Iran’s escalating attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, according to US officials.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved a request from United States Central Command to deploy the unit near Iran, the The Wall Street Journal reported, citing officials familiar with the plan.

A Marine Expeditionary Unit typically consists of up to 2,500 Marines and is designed to respond quickly to crises, conduct amphibious operations and provide rapid military support in volatile regions.

The Marines are believed to be deploying from the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, one of the largest Marine training facilities in the United States.

The move comes as Washington grows increasingly concerned about disruptions to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

The waterway handles a significant share of global crude exports, and attacks or threats to shipping in the area have raised fears of supply disruptions and rising energy prices.

The deployment is expected to strengthen the US military presence in the region and support efforts to safeguard commercial vessels navigating the strategic corridor.

News world US Deploys 2,500 Marines To Strait Of Hormuz Amid Attacks On Ships

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