More than 3,500 U.S. troops, including approximately 2,500 Marines aboard the USS Tripoli, have been deployed to the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran following recent missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia that injured U.S. personnel. The conflict has disrupted global oil exports and shipping routes, with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also entering the fray, raising concerns over maritime security. Despite rising hostilities and military preparations, diplomatic efforts continue, with the U.S. proposing a peace plan that Iran has rejected, while both sides maintain readiness for further confrontation.