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WASHINGTON, D.C. (NewsFirst) – The Pentagon said Thursday that about 900 US troops have deployed or are deploying to the Middle East to protect US forces from attacks by Iranian-backed militia groups, according to multiple news outlets.
The troops include air defense, security, logistics, medical and intelligence units from various bases in the US. They are not going to Israel, but to other locations in the region.
The deployment comes after a series of attacks on US and coalition bases in Iraq and Syria by drones and rockets. Between October 17th and 26th, there were 16 attacks that injured 21 US service members, mostly with traumatic brain injuries. The Pentagon says they are holding Iran responsible for these groups.
“The US military has the right to defend its troops and will take all necessary measures to do so”, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said to multiple news outlets.
The US also has Navy assets in the region, including two carrier strike groups, to deter further aggression and support regional stability.
