🕒 Created

The United States is considering reducing its military presence in the Middle East following the war with Iran.

The United States is evaluating a potential reduction in its Middle East military presence following the recent war with Iran. The Pentagon's policy office, in coordination with the Joint Staff and US Central Command, is leading the evaluation to determine which bases to scale back. Central to the discussion is the relocation of Gulf troops westward, with Adm. Brad Cooper supporting the move. The administration is currently weighing whether to rebuild bases damaged by Iran, as many were evacuated in February to avoid vulnerability to drone and missile attacks. This shift may cause a rift between hawkish and dovish members of the administration. The Persian Gulf remains a primary area for potential cuts, where Iran launched thousands of ballistic missiles and drones during Operation Epic Fury. While the UAE reported incoming missiles, Iran denied the launch, suggesting as instead a false-flag attack by the US or Israel.

Sources