A Saudi air base housing U.S. troops was targeted by Iranian forces Friday in a missile and drone attack that injured at least 15 American service members, five seriously. The attack, which involved six ballistic missiles and 29 drones, marks the latest escalation in a conflict that has now wounded over 300 U.S. troops since hostilities began last month.
Marine Deployment Bolsters Regional Presence
As tensions rise, the U.S. military continues to strengthen its presence in the Middle East. The USS Tripoli, an amphibious assault ship carrying approximately 2,500 Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, arrived in the region Saturday. The ship, previously stationed near Taiwan, brings additional transport and strike fighter aircraft, as well as amphibious assault assets. This deployment follows the dispatch of the USS Boxer and another Marine Expeditionary Unit from San Diego, further expanding the largest U.S. military presence in the region in over two decades.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Friday, 'The United States can meet its objectives without any ground troops,' but emphasized that President Trump 'has to be prepared for multiple contingencies.'
Economic Fallout and Regional Instability
The conflict has disrupted global air travel and oil exports, causing fuel prices to surge. Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy trade, has exacerbated the economic fallout. President Trump has set a deadline of April 6 for Iran to reopen the strait, but Tehran denies engaging in any negotiations. The Saudi air base, located 60 miles from Riyadh, has been a frequent target since the war began, with attacks earlier in the week injuring 14 U.S. troops and damaging an aircraft.
As the U.S. military prepares for potential escalation, the Pentagon confirmed that over 300 service members have been wounded in the conflict, with 30 still out of action and 10 seriously wounded. The situation remains fluid, with American forces poised to respond to emerging threats in the region.