Pakistan, Sept. 4 -- The United States is extending thousands of troop deployments across the Middle East into 2027. The move signals preparations for a prolonged conflict with Iran. The US military currently has about 50,000 troops stationed across the region. The deployment extensions affect Army units, air defence forces, fighter squadrons and Navy personnel. Meanwhile, some forces could remain in the region for another year.

Read More: USS George Washington heads to Mideast as Lincoln deployment

The extensions mark a major change from Washington's earlier expectations. US officials initially presented the campaign against Iran as a quick military operation. However, the conflict has continued for six months. Therefore, the Pentagon ...