US removes some military capabilities, forces from Saudi Arabia — report

US President Joe Biden has ordered the removal of some elements of the country’s military presence in Saudi Arabia, in the first of several steps to refocus US attention away from the Middle East, the Wall Street Journal reports citing unnamed defense officials.

The report says the US has “removed at least three Patriot antimissile batteries from the Gulf region, including one from Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, that had been put in place in recent years to help protect American forces.”

“Some capabilities, including an aircraft carrier and surveillance systems, are being diverted from the Middle East to answer military needs elsewhere around the globe,” it says, adding that “other reductions are under consideration.”

The moves mean that thousands of troops could eventually leave the region.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.