"The amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli has been operating in the US Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility since 27/3", CENTCOM, the agency responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, stated in an announcement today.

The USS Tripoli, an America-class amphibious assault ship, serves as the flagship for the Tripoli amphibious ready group. Its onboard force comprises approximately 2,500 marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), along with numerous F-35B stealth fighters, attack helicopters, and transport aircraft.

US marines train to deploy from USS Tripoli in February. Video: US Navy

The announcement marks the first time a US Navy amphibious ready group has been present in the Middle East since the conflict erupted in late February.

The amphibious assault ship USS Boxer, carrying approximately 2,200 marines from the 11th MEU, along with two escort ships, also departed from San Diego on 25/3 and is expected to arrive in the Middle East in about a month. The amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans is also scheduled to reach the CENTCOM area of responsibility on 3/4.

An amphibious ready group (ARG) is a rapid-response force specializing in amphibious assault and special operations missions. Each group typically consists of an amphibious assault ship, two amphibious transport docks, and a support ship, accompanied by an MEU with a personnel strength of approximately 2,000-3,000.

MEUs are highly flexible forces capable of executing various missions, ranging from land-based raids and sea control to amphibious landings and logistical support.

The USS Tripoli (right) refuels the destroyer USS Rafael Peralta in the Pacific Ocean in February. Photo: US Navy

The New York Times previously quoted former US officers who stated that if President Donald Trump's administration decided to seize Kharg Island, often described as Iran's "oil lifeline", marines would likely land to control and quickly repair the airport and related infrastructure.

This operation would enable the air force to use transport aircraft to bring equipment, supplies, and troops to the island. The 82nd Airborne Division could then deploy to the island, allowing the marines to withdraw.

However, experts warn that deploying troops to Kharg Island would be a significant escalation, requiring a large-scale, prolonged operation with numerous risks and the potential for severe consequences, even within the US.

Merely approaching the island would be extremely dangerous, as amphibious forces would have to navigate the Strait of Hormuz, which is under Iranian blockade. This would also expose US forces to ballistic missiles, anti-ship missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), weapons that could be launched continuously from the coast and deep inland.

Thanh Tam (According to CNN, CBS News, The Hill)