The U.S. is sending additional ships and marines to the Middle East to ensure freedom of navigation and counter Iran.

The U.S. Central Command reports.

The decision is related to Iran’s attacks on civilian vessels and attempts to seize them: over the past two years, Iran has attempted to attack more than 20 vessels.

“These additional forces provide unique capabilities, which alongside our partners nations in the region, further safeguard the free flow of international commerce and uphold the rules based international order, and deter Iranian destabilizing activities in the region,” said Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, Commander U.S. Central Command.

As Militarnyi reported in April this year, Iran seized the Advantage Sweet tanker in the Gulf of Oman.

Also in July, ships of the Iranian Navy attempted to seize two oil tankers in the international waters of the Gulf of Oman.

The exact composition of the group was not reported, but the Military Times publication, citing high-ranking U.S. officials, revealed the composition of the group.

It regards the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

The readiness group consists of three ships, including the Bataan, an amphibious assault ship, the amphibious transport dock Mesa Verde and the dock landing ship Carter Hall.

The group left Norfolk, Virginia, earlier this month.

The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit consists of about 2,400 soldiers.

“U.S. Central Command is committed to defending freedom of navigation within our area of responsibility which includes some of the most important waterways in the world,” Kurilla said.

In addition, the US government has strengthened the local air force group with F-16 and F-35 fighter jets.

The guided missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner has also been deployed to reinforce the naval force.