Pentagon Considers Increasing Troops and Equipment in Middle East After Assassination of Hassan Nasrallah

The Pentagon is considering increasing the number of troops and equipment in the Middle East following the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, according to two U.S. officials. This morning, military officials presented Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin with options for additional military support to the region, sparking discussions with President Joe Biden and other national security leaders.

Currently, the U.S. has about 40,000 troops in the region, more than during Iran’s retaliation against Israel in April. While the Pentagon is confident in their current posture, they are prepared to extend deployments or adjust capabilities in anticipation of potential retaliation from Iran or Hezbollah.

There are troops and assets in place to support a military-assisted departure of civilians if necessary, with the airport still operational and commercial flights available. Despite minimal requests for help from Americans to leave at this time, officials are prepared to order a non-combatant evacuation if the situation worsens.

Additionally, there is a possibility that the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group may be re-routed from Europe to the Middle East. While there is no indication of this happening yet, the group could quickly be reassigned to U.S. Central Command if needed.

As tensions continue to rise in the region, the Pentagon remains vigilant and ready to adjust their military presence as needed to ensure the safety and security of American interests in the Middle East.