Iran-US tension at breaking point as Washington send military to region amid UK tanker row

Following Iran’s seizure of a British oil tanker, the US has confirmed its previous plan to send troops to ally, Saudi Arabia. After a series of skirmishes from both sides, Washington has been putting together plans to deploy 500 military personnel to the country. With the tensions between Iran and the US rising to an unprecedented level, the US will send back troops to its ally after more than 15 years away.

In a statement from the Central Command, the US confirmed that it is sending military personnel to defend forces against “credible threats”.

Moreover, the statement followed: “In coordination with and at the invitation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Secretary of Defence has authorised the movement of US personnel and resources to deploy to Saudi Arabia.

“This movement of forces provides an additional deterrent and ensures our ability to defend our forces and interests in the region from emergent, credible threats.

“This movement creates improvement of operational depth and logistical networks.

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“US Central Command continually assesses force posture in the region and is working with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia authorities to base U.S. assets at the appropriate locations.”

On Friday, Iran sparked outrage after the Islamic Republic seized a British-flagged oil tanker.

Oil tanker Stena Impero was seized in the Gulf after an accusation it was “heading north towards Iran”.

A second British-flagged tanker was boarded by armed guards, although it was later released.

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Following the event, the UK Government’s emergency committee, COBR was called in Whitehall to discuss events.

Foreign Secretary, Jeremy Hunt said that the seizures were “completely unacceptable” and “freedom of navigation must be maintained”.

He added: “We are absolutely clear that if this situation is not resolved quickly there will be serious consequences.

“We are not looking at military options.

“We are looking at a diplomatic way to resolve this situation but we are very clear that it must be resolved.”

source: express.co.uk