In response to a harrowing assault by Hamas, the U.S. promptly positioned its warships and aircraft closer to the region, preparing to support Israel.
A second U.S. carrier strike group departed from Norfolk, Virginia, that Friday, while numerous aircraft were rerouted to U.S. bases across the Middle East. Israel now receives assistance in planning and intelligence from the U.S. special operations forces. The first consignment of additional ammunition has been delivered.
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More aid is anticipated soon. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to visit Israel on Friday to discuss further U.S. support.
The increased military activity reflects the U.S.'s apprehension about the escalating conflict between Hamas and Israel, potentially leading to a larger regional war. Thus, the primary goal of the U.S. military presence is to deter entities like Hezbollah, Iran, or others from exploiting the volatile situation. However, the U.S. is prepared for broader actions if required.
Looking into potential U.S. military assistance:
Missiles for Iron Dome: The U.S. is supplying both personnel and essential munitions to Israel. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin mentioned that a special operations unit is currently aiding Israel with intelligence and planning, and offering counsel to the Israeli Defence Forces, especially on matters of hostage recovery. Yet, this team hasn't been assigned to direct hostage rescues, which would involve ground combat – a move not sanctioned by the Biden administration. As White House spokesman John Kirby stated, Israel doesn't desire this either.
Furthermore, the U.S. is expediting weapon orders from U.S. defence companies that Israel had previously placed. The primary focus is on the Iron Dome's munitions.
“We’re surging additional military assistance, including ammunition and interceptors to replenish Iron Dome,” said President Joe Biden. “We’re going to make sure that Israel does not run out of these critical assets to defend its cities and its citizens.”
Ships and aircraft: After a recent exercise with the Italian Navy, the Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group was redirected towards Israel. A week post the attacks, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower carrier strike group was also directed to join the Ford in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The carriers offer numerous strategic capabilities. They can act as central command units, handle information warfare, launch surveillance aircraft, and manage the airspace. They also provide humanitarian capabilities, including onboard medical facilities.
Air Force action: There's a bolstering of A-10, F-15, and F-16 squadrons in the Middle East, with the Pentagon ready to deploy more as required.
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall mentioned that units that were scheduled to return home would now remain stationed, accompanied by their replacements. He also revealed that U.S. Air Force C-17s have been operating in Israel since the onslaught of attacks, primarily evacuating U.S. military personnel previously in Israel for a pre-attack military exercise. The exact roles of these air units in the conflict, if any, remain undisclosed by the Air Force and Central Command.