The United States is deploying an amphibious assault ship along with thousands of Marines and sailors to the Middle East, according to U.S. officials, as tensions with Iran continue to escalate.

 

 

 

The move comes amid efforts by Washington to respond to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and Israel, which is approaching its fourth week.

 

 

 

Officials said the additional troops are being sent aboard a large naval vessel, though their exact mission has not been disclosed.

 

 

 

The deployment follows earlier reports that the U.S. was considering various military options, including possible operations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively shut by Iran since the conflict began.

 

 

 

Oil prices have surged significantly since the start of the war, raising concerns about global economic stability.

 

 

 

U.S. President Donald Trump also criticised allied nations for declining to assist in reopening the vital waterway, warning that their stance would not be forgotten.

 

 

 

Meanwhile, Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, called for national unity and resistance in a message marking the Persian New Year, known as Nowruz.

 

 

 

Despite the ongoing conflict, the region continues to observe major celebrations, including Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan.

 

 

 

Energy markets remain volatile, with Brent crude trading near $110 after earlier surges driven by

fears of prolonged disruption.