The Pentagon announced on Friday that the U.S. military will deploy additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the Middle East. This move is aimed at strengthening defenses in response to threats from Iran and its allied groups, Hamas and Hezbollah.
The U.S. anticipates potential retaliation from Iran following the recent killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This incident is part of a series of targeted killings of senior Hamas figures amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has authorized the deployment of extra Navy cruisers and destroyers capable of intercepting ballistic missiles to the region, along with an additional squadron of fighter jets. The Pentagon stated that these adjustments are intended to enhance U.S. force protection, support Israel’s defense, and prepare for various contingencies.
There had been uncertainty about whether the Pentagon would replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group upon the completion of its current mission. However, Austin decided to rotate in the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group as a replacement.
The Pentagon also plans to boost readiness for deploying more land-based ballistic missile defenses. Prior to April 13, when Iran attacked Israeli territory with drones and missiles, the U.S. military had already increased deployments. However, the threat from Hezbollah, with its extensive arsenal and proximity to Israel, presents significant challenges for intercepting drones and missiles.
During this period, Israel successfully intercepted nearly all of the approximately 300 drones and missiles with assistance from the U.S. and other allies. President Biden discussed new U.S. defensive military deployments with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to counter threats such as missiles and drones.
Both Iran and Hamas have accused Israel of orchestrating Haniyeh’s killing and have vowed retaliation. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for his death.
As the Gaza conflict approaches its 11th month, with growing concerns about its spread across the Middle East, an Israeli delegation is set to travel to Cairo in the coming days for ceasefire and hostage release negotiations, according to Netanyahu’s office.
Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh expressed hope that escalation is not inevitable, emphasizing the U.S. is actively seeking a ceasefire deal to mitigate heightened tensions.
