Trump orders more combat-ready forces into Middle East
President Donald Trump has officially notified Congress that he has instructed the Department of Defense to deploy additional combat-ready forces to the Middle East. This decision comes as U.S. forces conduct military strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen to prevent attacks on American forces and commercial ships in the Red Sea.
In a letter dated March 28 and released on Tuesday, Trump informed House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley of his directive to increase U.S. military presence in the region and launch significant strikes on Houthi-controlled areas. The President emphasized the need to protect American forces and vessels in one of the world’s most crucial shipping lanes.
“We will no longer allow this group of pirates to threaten and attack United States forces and commercial vessels,” Trump stated in the letter. “We will take action to ensure the safety of Americans.”
The military operations include the deployment of Navy ships, Air Force bombers, and drones targeting Houthi weapons, leadership, and command centers. Trump reiterated that these actions are within his authority as commander in chief and in adherence to the War Powers Resolution, which requires congressional notification.
The ongoing airstrikes in Yemen, now entering their fourth week, were initiated in response to renewed Houthi threats against Israeli ships and attacks on U.S. forces. The administration has also imposed sanctions on the International Bank of Yemen for allegedly aiding the Houthis in moving money internationally and circumventing restrictions.
The Treasury and State departments accuse the Houthis of utilizing the bank’s access to the SWIFT global system to finance terror operations, including oil purchases and weapons acquisition. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, claimed that numerous Houthi leaders have been eliminated in the recent strikes and warned Iran, the group’s primary supporter, of potential consequences if attacks persist.
The Houthis intensified their attacks in the Red Sea following the October 2023 Hamas terror incident in Israel. While they have targeted U.S. warships, they have avoided hitting Chinese and Saudi vessels, prompting speculation among defense officials about their strategic objectives.
Congress is set to review Trump’s report as U.S. strikes continue in the region. The administration remains committed to ensuring the safety of American personnel and interests amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.
