U.S. sends more reinforcements to Mideast amid regional tensions
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Pentagon announced on Sunday a significant boost in U.S. military support for Israel following increased regional tensions in the Middle East.
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin has directed the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group, which includes F-35C fighter jets, to move quickly to the Central Command region.
This came as Austin spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to defend Israel and emphasized the strengthening of U.S. military forces in the region.
Ryder added that this deployment complements the existing presence of the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group.
Additionally, Austin has directed the USS Georgia, a guided missile submarine, to move to the Central Command area to further bolster U.S. military capabilities in the area, Ryder noted.
The conversation between Austin and Gallant also covered several key issues, including Israel’s operations in Gaza.
They discussed efforts to reduce civilian casualties, progress towards achieving a ceasefire, and the ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
Moreover, they addressed strategies to deter attacks from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, and other Iranian-backed militias operating in the region.