The Pentagon announced Monday that the U.S. is deploying a “few thousand” more troops to the Middle East to enhance security and prepare to defend Israel if needed.
Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh confirmed the increased presence will come from several fighter jet squadrons. Despite the growing tension, Singh clarified that the jets are intended for the protection of U.S. forces in the region.
This move follows recent military action in Lebanon and the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, marking a serious escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The additional forces will include F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16, A-10, and F-22 fighter jets, along with the necessary personnel to support them. While the new squadrons were initially scheduled to replace those already stationed in the region, both groups will remain, effectively doubling airpower.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also extended the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group on Sunday. A second carrier, the USS Harry S. Truman, set sail from Virginia last week and is currently on its way to Europe. Once it reaches the Mediterranean Sea, it will re-establish a two-carrier presence in the region. The ship is not expected to arrive for at least another week.
