Official announcements from the Pentagon or Israeli Ministry of Defense

Biden Bolsters US Military Presence with Defensive Deployments to Support Israel Amid Rising Tensions

Aug 2, 2024, 02:45 PM

The United States is bolstering its military presence in the Middle East to support Israel amid rising tensions following the assassinations of Hezbollah senior general Fuad Shukr and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. President Joe Biden has announced new defensive military deployments to protect Israel against potential retaliation from Iran and its proxies. The Pentagon has informed Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of ongoing and future changes to U.S. forces in the region, including the deployment of additional military assets and equipment. Twelve U.S. warships have already been assembled in the area, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has emphasized the 'ironclad support' from the United States for Israel's defense. Top U.S. military and defense officials are still deliberating plans to surge additional assets into the Middle East to ensure preparedness against evolving threats. Biden's commitment to Netanyahu underscores the importance of this move, and Israeli Defense Minister Gallant has also discussed regional security cooperation with his British counterpart, John Healey.