Media: U.S. military operation against Iran may extend into 2027

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth is quietly extending the deployment terms of American troops in the Middle East, allowing for the possibility that the operation against Iran may not end this year.

This was reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) citing sources.

Nineteen U.S. Navy ships, fighter squadrons, air defense units and paratroopers are operating in the Middle East, the publication recalls, noting that the prolonged deployment in the region is negatively affecting the condition of service members and does not allow for proper maintenance of military equipment. Because of logistical problems, sailors have begun receiving letters and parcels from their loved ones far less often, and the process of replenishing supplies has also become difficult, the newspaper writes.

According to its information, American leader Donald Trump privately supports the idea of announcing the end of hostilities against Tehran and believes that exerting economic pressure on the Islamic Republic will allow Washington to achieve its goals. Nevertheless, 50,000 troops remain in the Middle East, the publication emphasizes.

As the conflict drags on, the deployment of service members is lasting longer than planned. As noted, the standard combat deployment period for U.S. Army air defense troops has increased from 9 to 12 months. The destroyers Spruance and Delbert D Black have been in the Middle East since the start of the U.S. military operation; they are now taking part in a naval blockade and their crews have spent months at sea without going ashore. In addition, units of the 82nd Airborne Division may remain in the Middle East next year. According to WSJ sources, the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt is preparing for a possible transfer to the region, and its combat duty could stretch into the spring of next year inclusive.

Source: TASS