The U.S. is “strengthening” its capabilities in the Middle East by sending an additional guided missile submarine to the region “in light of escalating regional tensions,” according to a statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder issued on Sunday.
The update comes the same day Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant.
“Secretary Austin reiterated the United States’ commitment to take every possible step to defend Israel,” according to the statement.
Secretary Austin ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, equipped with F-35C fighters, to accelerate its transit to the Middle East, which was previously expected to get there by the end of the month.
The Lincoln was already en route to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt, but will now add to the capabilities of the Roosevelt
Additionally, Austin has ordered the USS Georgia guided missile submarine to the Middle East.
The statement doesn’t say how soon the Lincoln or the USS Georgia will arrive in the region.
-ABC News’ Anne Flaherty
The United States has recently announced an increase in its military presence in the Middle East as tensions continue to escalate in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. The decision comes as both sides have engaged in intense fighting, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread destruction.
The US has deployed additional troops, warships, and aircraft to the region in an effort to support its allies and maintain stability in the area. The move is seen as a show of solidarity with Israel, which has faced relentless rocket attacks from Hamas militants in Gaza.
The conflict began when tensions flared over a long-standing land dispute in East Jerusalem, which led to violent clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters. The situation quickly escalated, with Hamas launching rockets into Israeli territory and Israel responding with airstrikes on Gaza.
The US has condemned the violence on both sides and called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. President Joe Biden has been in contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to urge them to de-escalate the situation and work towards a peaceful resolution.
The increase in US military presence in the Middle East is aimed at deterring further aggression and ensuring the safety of American personnel in the region. It also sends a clear message to Iran, which supports Hamas and other militant groups in the area, that the US is committed to defending its allies and interests in the Middle East.
While the situation remains volatile, there are hopes that a ceasefire can be reached soon to prevent further bloodshed and destruction. The international community has called for a diplomatic solution to the conflict, with the United Nations and other organizations working to mediate talks between Israel and Hamas.
As the US increases its military presence in the Middle East, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and negotiation to end the violence and find a lasting peace. The world is watching closely as the situation unfolds, hoping for a swift resolution that will bring stability and security to the region.
