U.S. Military Prepares For The Worst
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has issued a directive to deploy a guided missile submarine to the Middle East and is expediting the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group’s deployment to the region. This strategic move comes as the U.S. assesses the potential for an imminent attack on Israel, possibly within this week, by Iran or its affiliated groups.
The Defense Department announced these actions on Sunday as part of a broader strategy to bolster U.S. presence in the area amid escalating tensions. This follows recent high-profile assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut, which have heightened the risk of retaliatory strikes from these groups.
John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokesman, noted that while it is challenging to predict the exact nature of any potential retaliation, the U.S. and its allies are bracing for significant attacks. Kirby assured that President Biden is confident in America’s ability to support and defend Israel if necessary, though he emphasized the hope that such measures will not be required.
Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed that Secretary Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to reaffirm U.S. support for Israel. Ryder highlighted the enhanced U.S. military posture and capabilities in the Middle East, reflecting America’s commitment to regional stability and defense.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, which was initially stationed in the Asia-Pacific region, is being repositioned to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt, which is set to return home. Although the exact timing of the Lincoln’s arrival in the Central Command area is unclear, it is expected by the end of the month. The carrier, equipped with F-35 and F/A-18 fighter jets, will play a crucial role in the enhanced military presence.
Additionally, the USS Georgia guided missile submarine is also being dispatched, though its arrival timeline remains unspecified. The focus of discussions between Austin and Gallant included Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the urgent need to minimize civilian casualties amidst the ongoing conflict.
This heightened military readiness follows a tragic Israeli airstrike on a Gaza school-turned-shelter, which resulted in significant casualties and has intensified the international community’s concern over the humanitarian impact of the conflict.
