US orders 2,500 Marines and an amphibious assault ship to Mideast after almost 2 weeks of war

The U.S. military has dispatched 2,500 Marines and an amphibious assault ship to the Middle East, a U.S. official reported on Friday. This move marks a significant increase in military presence in the region following nearly two weeks of conflict with Iran. Shortly after, President Donald Trump announced that U.S. forces had successfully targeted military sites on Iran's Kharg Island, which is crucial for the country's oil exports. He also cautioned that the oil infrastructure on the island might be the next target. A day prior, the Iranian parliament speaker warned that such attacks would lead to severe retaliation. In Tehran, a powerful explosion occurred in a central square during a large rally organized by the state to support Palestinians and call for the end of Israel. Israel had previously warned it would strike the area, but there were no reports of injuries. The continuation of the mass rally, attended by high-ranking government officials, alongside Israel's threats, highlights the strong resolve of both sides in a conflict that is affecting the global economy and shows no signs of stopping. Iran has been actively conducting missile and drone strikes against Israel and nearby Gulf nations, and it has effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for global oil trade. Meanwhile, Israel continues to launch attacks on Iran-backed Hezbollah militants, leading to a worsening humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, where nearly 800 people have died and 850,000 have been displaced. In a Fox News interview, Trump stated that the war would conclude “when I feel it in my bones.” He also expressed a cautious view about the chances of opponents overthrowing the Islamic government, noting that it is a significant challenge for those without weapons, referencing Iran's Basij force, which has played a key role in suppressing recent protests. The Marines and the USS Tripoli will enhance U.S. military capabilities in the region. Elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship have been ordered to the Middle East, according to the U.S. official who spoke to The Associated Press under the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of military operations.