In a rapid response to the escalating conflict in Israel, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced on Sunday that he had directed the deployment of the Ford carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean. This move aims to support Israel following the recent attack by Hamas, which has resulted in the tragic loss of more than 1,000 lives on both sides, including Americans among the casualties and missing. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy's state-of-the-art aircraft carrier, will lead the deployment, accompanied by cruisers and destroyers, totaling around 5,000 sailors and a complement of warplanes. This significant show of force is intended to prepare for a range of scenarios, from intercepting potential weapons shipments to Hamas to conducting surveillance operations.
The United States' decision to deploy such a formidable naval presence underscores its commitment to preventing the conflict from spreading further across the region. However, in response to the mounting tensions, the Israeli government officially declared war on Sunday, authorizing "significant military steps" against Hamas. Initial reports indicate that at least four American citizens lost their lives in the attacks, with an additional seven individuals reported missing and unaccounted for. The numbers remain fluid, pending a comprehensive assessment. Most, if not all, of the deceased or missing individuals are dual U.S.-Israeli citizens.
Accompanying the USS Gerald R. Ford, the United States is dispatching the cruiser USS Normandy and destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt. Furthermore, the U.S. will enhance its Air Force presence in the region, deploying F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons. "The U.S. maintains ready forces globally to further reinforce this deterrence posture if required," emphasized Secretary Austin in a statement. Additionally, the Biden administration has committed to providing the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions. The first shipment of security assistance will commence immediately and is expected to arrive in the coming days.
President Joe Biden held a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which they discussed the horrifying hostage situation orchestrated by Hamas, involving families, the elderly, and young children. President Biden emphasized the need for global unity against such brutal atrocities and assured Netanyahu of ongoing U.S. diplomatic efforts, with more assistance forthcoming in the days ahead. As part of the U.S. efforts to prevent further escalation, Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged with counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. In these conversations, Blinken emphasized the United States' unwavering focus on halting Hamas' attacks and securing the release of all hostages.
In the U.S. House, leaders of the Foreign Affairs Committee are preparing a bipartisan resolution affirming solidarity with Israel and condemning "Hamas' brutal war." This resolution is expected to be one of the first items considered for voting once the House elects a new speaker. The situation remains fluid, and the United States continues to closely monitor developments, reaffirming its commitment to regional stability and peace.
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