United State Deploys Carrier Strike Group to Eastern Mediterranean in Response to Israel-Hamas Conflict
In response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to Eastern Mediterranean. This action follows a Hamas attack that resulted in the deaths of over a thousand individuals on both sides, including American citizens.
The USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, is accompanied by cruisers and destroyers and a formidable armament of warplanes. This deployment is a display of force, prepared to respond to a variety of scenarios, including the interception of Hamas-bound weapons and surveillance operations.
The United States’ decision to dispatch this carrier strike group demonstrates their resolve to prevent the conflict from spreading further in the region. In response to the attack, however, Israel declared war and authorized “significant military actions” against Hamas.
According to preliminary reports, at least four American citizens were killed in the assaults, with an additional seven reported missing and unaccounted for. The majority, if not all, of those affected are American and Israeli dual citizens. The situation is fluid, and the numbers may alter as additional information is obtained.
The United States will also send the cruiser USS Normandy and the destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt. In addition to deploying F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons, the Air Force is increasing its presence in the region.
Secretary of Defense Austin emphasized, “The United States maintains forces globally that are ready to reinforce this deterrence posture if necessary.” In addition, the Biden administration is accelerating the delivery of additional equipment, resources, and ammunition to the Israel Defense Forces.
The Norfolk, Virginia-based carrier strike group was already in the Mediterranean, conducting naval exercises with Italy in the Ionian Sea. This mission is the carrier’s inaugural complete mission.
Chuck Schumer, the majority leader of the United States Senate, stated that he was assured during a briefing that the United States was providing Israel with “everything they need” and that no Israeli requests had been denied.
In a phone call, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the situation, with Biden condemning Hamas’s hostage-taking and pledging continued U.S. support. They also explored methods to prevent Israel’s enemies from gaining further advantage.
As part of efforts to prevent further escalation, Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. He urged their continued engagement and emphasized the unwavering focus of the United States on ending Hamas attacks and securing the release of all hostages.
The leaders of the House Foreign Affairs Committee are preparing a resolution that expresses support for Israel and condemns Hamas’ actions. The resolution is anticipated to be among the first items considered for voting once the House elects a new speaker.
In the coming days, House Republicans plan to initiate the selection process for a new speaker, while the crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean continues to be a top priority for the United States as it navigates a complex and dynamic international landscape.
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