US military sends 2,500 Marines and at least one more ship to Mideast

By JON GAMBRELL, DAVID RISING and MIKE CORDER

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – Roughly 2,500 Marines and at least one amphibious assault ship are headed for the Middle East, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans, said elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli have been ordered to the Middle East.

The move marks a major addition of troops to the region.