As tensions between the US and Iran continue, the US-based Wall Street Journal newspaper has claimed that the Washington administration is preparing to deploy a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East.
In the report, which cited US officials, it was stated that the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier and the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group departed from the Port of San Diego in California in recent days, and that the units are expected to reach the region toward the end of November.
It was reported that approximately 10,000 additional military personnel are expected to join the more than 50,000 US troops already in the region. The report also noted that the aircraft carriers USS George Washington and USS George H. W. Bush are continuing their missions in the region.
It was stated that if the USS George Washington, which was considered to be returning to Japan, continues its mission after the arrival of the Roosevelt in the region, it would mark the first time since April that the US has had three active aircraft carrier strike groups in the Middle East.
Possibility of increased bombardments after midterm elections
It was emphasized that this claim and the military buildup come after US President Donald Trump rejected a 7-day agreement process proposed by the Tehran administration. In an interview recently, Trump commented "It's possible" regarding claims that he would increase the bombardment of Iran following the midterm elections to be held in the US.
Iran's offer to open the Strait of Hormuz
Last week, as part of a plan conveyed to the US through mediator Qatar during the 81st United Nations (UN) General Assembly held in New York, Iran had offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume normal maritime passage through the Strait, which is critical for global oil trade, within 7 days. Stating that he rejected this offer, Trump said, "I rejected their offer. They want to make a deal where they would open the Strait immediately because they are losing very heavily."
News Source: 12punto
