Washington: The Pentagon is reportedly reassessing its military presence in the Middle East following the ongoing conflict with Iran, which began after a joint US-Israeli attack on February 28. The operation, initially projected to last four to six weeks, has now extended over five months, with the conflict persisting despite attempts at ceasefire. According to TRTworld.com, the US and Israel's initial strike resulted in the death of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei and other top leaders, leading to a strong retaliatory response from Iran. The Iranian forces launched missile and drone strikes impacting the Strait of Hormuz and creating global instability. As the conflict continues, the Pentagon is reconsidering its troop deployment strategy in the region, particularly in the Gulf, where US bases have been repeatedly targeted. The Washington Post reports that the Pentagon's review, led by the policy office with input from the Joint Staff and US Central Command, has not been formally ordered by Defense Secr etary Pete Hegseth but is seen as "prudent planning." The ongoing Operation Epic Fury has resulted in 18 confirmed US military deaths and significant equipment losses, with war costs projected to reach $37.5 billion by September 2026. Currently, the US maintains around 40,000 troops across nearly 20 sites from Jordan to Oman. Despite a memorandum of understanding signed in June to end hostilities, the conflict has continued, with disputes over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz stalling further negotiations. The Pentagon's analysis, according to The Washington Post, has intensified a debate within the US administration between advocates of continued military intervention and those favoring a focus on domestic defense and countering other global powers like China. Discussions involve potentially relocating US troops westward from the Gulf, with strategic considerations including the vulnerability of US forces in the region highlighted by Michael Ratney, a former US diplomat. As the situation evolves, t he US military's future posture in the Middle East remains uncertain, with ongoing deliberations about the best approach to ensuring stability and security in the region.