US JETS, SHIPS, TROOPS READY IN REGION AS ISRAEL SHIFTS FOCUS TO THE NORTHERN FRONT

Fri 20 September 2024:

The U.S. has maintained a substantial military presence in the Middle East, with around 40,000 troops, a dozen warships, and four squadrons of fighter jets spread across the region. This deployment aims to protect allies and deter attacks, especially as tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have surged. The conflict threatens to escalate into full-scale war, with Hezbollah retaliating against Israel’s continued offensive in Gaza.

Israel and Hezbollah on High Alert
Hezbollah accused Israel of crossing a “red line” by attacking its communication devices, and in response, has increased missile strikes. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in discussions with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, announced a shift in Israel’s war efforts toward its northern front, focusing on Hezbollah and Lebanon.

U.S. Forces Steady, Ready to Defend
Though the situation is intensifying, the U.S. has not signaled any troop increase. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh reassured that current forces are well-equipped to protect U.S. interests and aid Israel if necessary. U.S. military officials noted that their additional resources in the region have been critical, with operations not only defending Israel but also countering threats from the Houthi group in Yemen and targeting Daesh in Iraq and Syria.

Overview of U.S. Military Deployment
The U.S. Central Command, overseeing operations in the Middle East, usually hosts around 34,000 troops, but this has recently surged to nearly 50,000, following tensions between Israel and Lebanon. While one carrier strike group has since left for the Asia-Pacific, the USS Abraham Lincoln remains stationed in the Gulf of Oman, alongside its destroyers, with a number of Navy warships patrolling the region, from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.

Advanced Aircraft and Warships on Guard
A formidable mix of Air Force and Navy aircraft are stationed strategically across the Middle East, ready to respond to any potential threats. The Air Force’s deployment includes F-22 fighter jets, known for their stealth capabilities, and A-10 Thunderbolt II ground attack aircraft. In addition, a recent move to land-based operations saw several F/A-18 fighter jets from the USS Abraham Lincoln relocated to undisclosed locations.

Continued Vigilance Amid Growing Threats
The U.S. remains on high alert, prepared to act in defense of its allies while keeping a steady presence in the region. With Hezbollah’s attacks escalating and Israel’s focus shifting to its northern front, the potential for broader conflict looms, and U.S. forces are poised to respond.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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