Military Presence

The United States has deployed the USS George Washington aircraft carrier to the Arabian Sea, replacing the USS Abraham Lincoln. The strike group is capable of prolonged autonomous operations and rapid response to developments in the Middle East.

Turkey is deepening its grip on Syria through a military presence, building a new army, and investing in infrastructure and energy. Ankara seeks to push out Iran and become the central power in the country.

The United States is considering reducing its military presence in Kuwait. Pentagon discussions began before the war with Iran, but recent attacks on American bases have accelerated the process.