US military and intelligence officials are discussing a possible reduction in permanently stationed forces and facilities across the Middle East.
The discussions could reshape Washington’s military and intelligence strategy in the region. Meanwhile, the US maintains around 50,000 troops across the Middle East. American forces also operate major military assets, including two aircraft carriers and more than a dozen guided-missile destroyers.
According to officials, the US military has developed several options for changing its regional force structure as early as next year. However, Washington has not ordered a formal force posture review.
US Wants Regional Allies to Share Defence Burden
Senior Pentagon officials reportedly want to reduce troop numbers in several Gulf countries. Moreover, they aim to shift more responsibility for regional security to local partners.
At the same time, the Pentagon is examining stronger protections for forces that remain in the region. These measures could include moving some military installations underground.
The conflict with Iran has increased urgency around the issue. Iranian missile and drone attacks exposed vulnerabilities at several American facilities.
“The vulnerabilities were always known, but the US never acted on it with urgency,” a US official said.
Iranian strikes reportedly damaged American facilities across the region. These included sites in Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
US May Not Rebuild Damaged Facilities
Washington could also decide against rebuilding some facilities that suffered severe damage during Iranian attacks.
Pentagon comptroller Jules “Jay” Hurst III said repair decisions would partly depend on Washington’s future regional posture.
Furthermore, officials are considering whether intelligence and special operations missions could operate without permanent bases. Personnel and equipment could instead travel from the US for specific missions.
US Expected to Keep Key Middle East Bases
Despite the possible reduction, Pentagon officials expect the US to retain some major permanent bases in the Middle East. However, reconstruction costs could reach billions of dollars. Therefore, Washington may ask host countries to contribute toward rebuilding expenses.
Meanwhile, tensions with Iran remain high. Iranian forces continue targeting US personnel and bases, including installations in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. US forces therefore remain vulnerable to further attacks in the near term.
Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Daryl Caudle also said US Navy personnel would not return soon to Bahrain, the traditional home of the 5th Fleet.
“We’re not getting back in there anytime soon,” Caudle said.
