The United States has announced plans to deploy additional warships and fighter jets to the Middle East to bolster defense for Israel amid escalating regional tensions.
The Pentagon stated that this move is intended to counter potential attacks from Iran and its proxies, reinforcing its “ironclad” commitment to support Israel.
Tensions in the region have surged following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and the death of Fuad Shukr, a key commander of Hezbollah.
Iran’s leader Ayatollah Khamenei has vowed “harsh punishment” against Israel for Haniyeh’s killing and declared three days of national mourning.
The assassination was reportedly carried out on Wednesday, with Iran and its Gaza-based proxy blaming Israel for the attack. Israel has yet to comment on the incident.
In response to these developments, the Pentagon has placed missile defense forces on high alert and announced plans to deploy additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the region.
This follows intensified military activity before an April 13 attack by Iran, which involved drones and missiles targeting Israel. Almost all of the approximately 300 drones and missiles fired were intercepted by Israeli and allied defenses.
Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh emphasised that the US does not view escalation as inevitable, stressing a desire to avoid heightened tensions and support a potential ceasefire.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged the challenging days ahead, citing recent strikes and ongoing threats from multiple fronts. He also noted that an Israeli delegation will soon travel to Cairo to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
The current conflict began on October 7, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people.
Israel’s subsequent military response in Gaza has reportedly resulted in nearly 40,000 casualties, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
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