Supplemental Info:

BACKGROUND:

The U.S. is increasing military assets in the Persian Gulf region after Iran tried to seize two oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks. Last week the U.S. announced the deployment of F-16 fighter jets to the Gulf amid the increase in shipping tensions

The following was released by the Pentagon a short time ago:

Department of Defense to Deploy Forces to
CENTCOM to Bolster Maritime Security
July 20,2023

In response to recent attempts by Iran to threaten the free flow of commerce in the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters, the Secretary of Defense has ordered the deployment of a portion of the BATAAN Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) comprised of the USS Bataan, USS Carter Hall, and its associated personnel and equipment into the USCENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR), in addition to the recently approved forces comprising F-35s, F-16s, and a guided missile destroyer, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116).

Through these actions, the United States is demonstrating commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and deterring Iranian destabilization activities in the region. We will continue to work with like-minded allies and partners who are committed to the free flow of commerce to take appropriate, coordinated actions against threats to this fundamental principle of the rules-based international order.