US extends Middle East troop deployment through 2027

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has extended the deployment of American forces in the Middle East through 2027, according to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal. The decision is seen as preparation for a possible prolonged confrontation with Iran and is intended to give President Donald Trump flexibility on Iran policy. About 50,000 U.S. troops are being repositioned in the region. Deployed forces include air defense units, fighter jets and 19 warships, among them two aircraft carriers and 13 guided-missile destroyers. The crew of the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier has been preparing for a longer deployment. CBS News reported that official messages sent to families of 82nd Airborne Division soldiers informed them the deployment could extend to 2027. According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump has privately discussed with advisers declaring the war with Iran over and shifting focus to economic pressure, while the Pentagon kept the deployment as a reserve option. The Independent reported that some senior U.S. commanders have warned Hegseth about strain on personnel, particularly in air defense and naval units, with maintenance schedules for ships and forces piling up.