WASHINGTON, USA: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered a rapid deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, underscoring heightened concerns of regional conflict. This decision follows recent escalations involving Iran and Hezbollah, who have vowed retaliation for the deaths of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr last month.
The Pentagon confirmed that Austin has accelerated the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, which includes advanced F-35 fighter jets. In addition, the guided missile submarine USS Georgia has been dispatched to the region. This move reflects increased U.S. support for Israel amid fears of broader conflict.
Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder noted that Austin discussed with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant the importance of minimizing civilian harm, efforts toward a ceasefire, and addressing the ongoing hostage situation in Gaza. The U.S. is also deploying additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers, destroyers, and a fighter squadron to bolster defenses in the region.
The Gaza conflict, which erupted after Hamas’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties. The latest figures indicate that the Israeli military’s response has led to over 39,790 deaths in Gaza, while the conflict has also seen the seizure of 251 individuals, with 111 still held captive. The U.S. military’s increased presence aims to deter further aggression from Iran-aligned groups and support regional stability.
