After the remaining American troops are withdrawn from Iraq later this year, the Obama administration plans to increase the American military presence in the Persian Gulf, MSNBC is reporting. The repositioning could include new combat forces in Kuwait, in case the military is needed to respond to a collapse of security in Iraq or a military confrontation with Iran.

The plan has been under discussion for months, but didn’t gain urgency or attention until President Obama announced the withdrawal of the remaining American troops from Iraq. However, several American military officers and diplomats, as well as officials of several surrounding countries, fear the withdrawal could leave instability in Iraq.

The Pentagon, which questioned the Obama administration over the withdrawal of the troops from Iraq, feels the proposed ground combat presence in Kuwait is an alternative to the Iraqi presence. The U.S. also plans on sending more naval warships through international waters in the region.

With the threat of a belligerent Iran, the Obama administration is also considering expanding military ties with the six countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council-Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar,he United Arab Emirates and Oman. The administration wants to build a new a new security architecture for the Persian Gulf, which would integrate air and naval patrols and missile defense.

Written by: Karen Benardello