The U.S. is deploying additional troops to the Middle East in response to rising violence between Israel and Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, the Pentagon announced Monday, as concerns of a larger regional conflict grow.
Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder did not specify the number of troops being sent or their exact mission, citing operational security. Currently, there are around 40,000 U.S. troops stationed in the region.
“In light of increased tension in the Middle East and out of an abundance of caution, we are sending a small number of additional U.S. military personnel forward to augment our forces that are already in the region,” Ryder said, without providing further details.
The new deployments follow a series of Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon that have resulted in hundreds of casualties. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Lebanese civilians on Monday to evacuate their homes ahead of further operations. Israeli warplanes continue to target alleged Hezbollah sites in southern and eastern Lebanon.
As tensions escalate, the U.S. State Department has urged Americans to leave Lebanon, citing the risk of a broader regional war. “Due to the unpredictable nature of ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel and recent explosions throughout Lebanon, including Beirut, the U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to depart Lebanon while commercial options still remain available,” the State Department warned.
Ryder did not confirm whether the additional U.S. forces would assist in evacuating American citizens, if necessary.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has held multiple calls with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, urging a cease-fire and a reduction in hostilities, according to Ryder. “Given the tensions and the escalation, there is the potential for a wider regional conflict. I don’t think we’re there yet, but it’s a dangerous situation,” Ryder added.
