U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has directed a guided missile submarine to the Middle East and instructed the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to hasten its journey to the region, the Defence Department announced on Sunday.
The decision aligns with efforts by the U.S. and its allies to encourage a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, aiming to reduce rising tensions after the assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut.
Officials remain vigilant for potential retaliation from Iran and Hezbollah due to these events, prompting the U.S. to bolster its regional military presence.
🚨🚨🚨Update: US War Chief General Lloyd Austin orders the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier battle group and other war ships to speed to the Middle East immediately at full speed ahead!! War about to kick off in hours!!🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/Ws5kL9z5Fy
— US Civil Defense News (@CaptCoronado) August 12, 2024
Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder conveyed that Austin had spoken with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant earlier, reaffirming America’s commitment to Israel’s defence. Austin highlighted the enhanced U.S. military capabilities in the Middle East amidst the escalating tensions.
The Lincoln, previously stationed in the Asia Pacific, was already en route to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier strike group, which is set to return home from the Middle East. Last week, Austin stated the Lincoln would reach the Central Command area by month’s end.
Details about the exact impact of Austin’s latest order or the accelerated timeline for the Lincoln’s arrival were not provided. The Lincoln carries F-35 fighter jets and F/A-18 fighter aircraft.
Ryder did not specify the arrival time for the USS Georgia guided missile submarine.
Austin and Gallant also discussed Israel’s operations in Gaza and emphasised the need to minimise civilian casualties.
This conversation followed an Israeli airstrike on a Gaza school-turned-shelter early Saturday, which resulted in at least 80 deaths and nearly 50 injuries, according to Palestinian health authorities. This strike marked one of the deadliest incidents in the ongoing 10-month Israel-Hamas conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is the U.S. sending a guided missile submarine to the Middle East?
To bolster military presence amid escalating regional tensions after key assassinations.
What are the recent events prompting the U.S. military movements?
The assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and a Hezbollah commander in Beirut.
Which U.S. aircraft carrier is being sent to the Middle East?
What did Secretary Austin discuss with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant?
They discussed U.S. support for Israel and the importance of mitigating civilian harm in Gaza.
What recent incident has heightened tensions in the Israel-Hamas conflict?
An Israeli airstrike on a Gaza school-turned-shelter, killing at least 80 people.
