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US Deploys More Forces to Saudi Arabia to Deter Iran

Carla Babb

   PENTAGON - The United States is deploying hundreds of additional forces
   to Saudi Arabia to deter Iranian aggressive behavior.

   Secretary of Defense Mark Esper told reporters Friday that the
   deployments include two fighter squadrons, additional Patriot missile
   batteries, a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system and
   supporting personnel.

   "Saudi Arabia is a long-standing security partner and has requested
   additional support to supplement their defenses and to defend the
   rules-based international order," said Brian Hook, special
   representative for Iran and senior adviser to the secretary of state.
   The troop deployment, he added, was supported by many partners in the
   region "who are on the front lines of Iranian aggression."

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