US Deploys Nuclear Submarine to the Middle East

The U.S. Navy announced today that a nuclear submarine with guided missiles is heading to the Middle East to support the U.S. Fifth Fleet stationed in Bahrain, according to Reuters.

The American submarine “Florida” entered the region on Thursday and began transiting the Suez Canal. This was stated in Commander Timothy Hawkins’ announcement.

“It can carry up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles and is deployed as part of the U.S. 5th Fleet to help ensure regional maritime security and stability,” Hawkins said.

The publication notes that Washington likely took this step following yet another phase of escalating tensions with Iran. The U.S. Navy has not commented on the reasons for the submarine's deployment or its possible objectives.