US Considering Increase in Troop Presence in Middle East Following Hezbollah Leader’s Assassination
In response to the recent assassination of Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah by Israel, U.S. officials have revealed that they are contemplating boosting the American troop presence in the Middle East. NBC reported that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was presented with various options by the military to reinforce U.S. forces and weaponry in the region. However, no final decision has been made as President Joe Biden is in consultation with Austin on this matter.
Currently, there are 40,000 U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East. President Biden has instructed the Department of Defense to adjust the status of these forces as needed to strengthen deterrence, ensure troop safety, and protect American interests. The White House released a statement confirming Biden’s discussions with his national security team and his directive to implement precautionary measures to safeguard U.S. embassies in the region.