Iran war: US amphibious assault ship arrives in Mideast amid talk of ground operation

The amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli has arrived in the Middle East, US Central Command said on Saturday, as speculation soared about the possible deployment of US ground troops in Iran.The ship arrived in the region on Friday, CENTCOM said in a social media post, noting that the vessel is the flagship for a contingent of “about 3,500” Marines and sailors.The group also includes “transport and strike fighter aircraft, as well as amphibious assault and tactical assets”, it said.The post features four images, including one showing several Seahawk helicopters on the ship’s deck, as well as some Osprey aircraft, typically used for personnel transport.Another picture shows an F-35 fighter jet.US Central Command shared images of some of the forces on board the USS Tripoli in a social media post on Saturday. Image: X/CENTCOMThe USS Tripoli, as well as the elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit that are aboard, are based in Japan.