In response to a request from U.S. Central Command for additional forces, Acting Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan has authorized about 1,000 additional troops for defensive purposes to address air, naval and ground-based threats in the Middle East.

In a statement, Shanahan said he made his decision with the advice of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and in consultation with the White House.

“The recent Iranian attacks validate the reliable, credible intelligence we have received on hostile behavior by Iranian forces and their proxy groups that threaten United States personnel and interests across the region,” Shanahan said. “The United States does not seek conflict with Iran. The action today is being taken to ensure the safety and welfare of our military personnel working throughout the region and to protect our national interests.”

The acting secretary added that officials would continue to monitor the situation diligently and make adjustments to force levels as necessary given intelligence reporting and credible threats.

The Iranian attack on oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman is just the latest example of the country’s attempts to destabilize the Middle East to its advantage, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo said June 13.

A Japanese tanker, the M/T Kokuka Courageous, and a Norwegian tanker, the M/T Altair, were damaged by limpet mines while steaming in international waters. U.S. officials placed the blame for the attack on Iran.

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