Washington: In the aftermath of a prolonged conflict with Iran, the United States is contemplating a strategic shift in its military presence in the Gulf region. The conflict, which began with a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28, has persisted for over five months despite initial projections of a short engagement.

According to TRTworld.com, the conflict was triggered by US-Israeli strikes that resulted in the death of Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, and significant civilian casualties. Iran retaliated by asserting control over the Strait of Hormuz and launching missile and drone attacks across the Gulf, disrupting regional stability.

Despite multiple ceasefire attempts, the conflict remains ongoing at a low intensity, with significant human and material costs. Operation Epic Fury, the US military campaign, has caused approximately 18 US military deaths and hundreds of injuries, with estimated costs reaching $37.5 billion by September 2026. Iranian attacks have damaged US military infrastructure and assets, prompting a reassessment of the military's regional footprint.

Citing eight sources familiar with the situation, The Washington Post reported that the Pentagon is reviewing its military strategy in the Middle East, potentially reshaping the US presence. A key focus is whether to reduce troop numbers in the Gulf, where bases have sustained repeated Iranian strikes. The Pentagon's policy office, Joint Staff, and US Central Command are conducting this strategic review.

A senior Pentagon official described the reassessment as "prudent planning," noting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has not ordered a formal review but is guiding decisions on rebuilding damaged bases. US Central Command currently maintains around 40,000 troops at 20 sites from Jordan to Oman, with significant bases in the Gulf, including the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain.

Recent developments include a memorandum of understanding signed between Iran and the US in June, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, to end hostilities and initiate negotiations. However, talks have stalled due to disagreements over the memorandum's implementation and navigation arrangements through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Pentagon's analysis has sparked debate within the administration about the future of US military interventions. Some officials advocate for reducing security commitments to refocus on defending the US homeland or deterring more powerful adversaries like China.

Admiral Bradley Cooper, head of US Central Command, has participated in discussions about potentially relocating US troops westward from the Gulf. Former diplomat Michael Ratney suggested that redeployment towards Jordan, Israel, or Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast could alleviate pressure, although acknowledging it is not a perfect solution.