The Pentagon announced on Friday that the US military will increase its presence in the Middle East with additional Fighter Jets and Navy warships, in response to threats from Iran and its allies, including Hamas and Hezbollah.
This move comes as the US anticipates a possible Iranian retaliation for the recent killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This incident is part of a series of targeted killings of senior Hamas figures amidst ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
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US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has approved the deployment of extra Navy cruisers and destroyers to the region, which are equipped to intercept ballistic missiles, as well as an additional squadron of fighter jets.
According to a Pentagon statement, Austin’s directives aim to enhance US military protection, bolster support for Israel’s defense, and ensure readiness for various potential scenarios. The statement also revealed that the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier strike group will replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group in the region.
The Pentagon will also boost its readiness to deploy more land-based missile defenses. This increase in military presence follows a prior intensification of deployments before April 13, when Iran attacked Israeli territory with drones and missiles. Despite the threat from Hezbollah’s significant arsenal, the US and its allies successfully intercepted nearly all of the approximately 300 drones and missiles launched.
During a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, President Biden discussed new US defensive measures to support Israel against missile and drone threats. Iran and Hamas have both accused Israel of Haniyeh’s killing and have vowed retaliation, though Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility.
As the Gaza conflict approaches its 11th month, concerns grow about its potential spread across the Middle East. The Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh emphasized that the US does not view escalation as inevitable and believes a ceasefire is possible.
In the coming days, an Israeli delegation will travel to Cairo for negotiations on a ceasefire and hostage release deal, as announced by Netanyahu’s office on Friday.
