US Strengthens Naval Presence in the Eastern Mediterranean Following Possible Chemical Attack in Syria

USS Mahan sticking around despite its deployment being over

The US has bolstered its navy presence in the eastern Mediterranean as President Barack Obama weighs up his options over the conflict in Syria.

US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel said the Pentagon was "positioning our forces" ahead of "whatever options the president might choose".

Defence officials were quoted as saying the US Navy had decided to have a fourth warship in the region.

It follows allegations of chemical weapons use by the Syrian government.