USS Nimitz to remain in Middle East
EVERETT -- The Everett-based USS Nimitz will remain in the Middle East for some time as the U.S. increases its presence in the Persian Gulf in the face of increasing tension and alleged chemical weapons attacks in Syria.
The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier will join four other destroyers ordered to move toward more advantageous position in case an airstrike on Syria is called, RT News reported early Monday. The Nimitz was slated to return to its home port in Everett after being released from duty by the USS Harry S. Truman.
No final decision on the location of the Nimitz has been made, RT News reported, saying it would possibly end up in the Red Sea or the Mediterranean. Five destroyers are currently employed in the Mediterranean, carrying an estimated load of 200 Tomahawk missiles.
More than 100,000 people have been killed and millions displaced in a civil war that has gripped the Middle East country for more than 2 1/2 years. President Obama has declined to launch a limited military strike against Syria without the approval of Congress.