Attacks on both sides have left thousands of people dead and wounded, and the toll is expected to rise. The escalating violence is raising the risk of a new major war in the Middle East.
US military ship near Israel. Photo: Reuters
Mr Austin said he had ordered the USS Gerald R Ford Carrier Strike Group to be moved to the Eastern Mediterranean, closer to Israel. The force includes the aircraft carrier, a guided missile cruiser and four guided missile destroyers.
Mr. Austin also said the US has also taken steps to increase the US Air Force's fleet of F-35, F-15, F-16 and A-10 fighter jets in the region. He said the US will also provide ammunition to Israel.
US President Joe Biden told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on October 8 that additional aid for the Israel Defense Forces was on the way and more would be coming in the coming days. US Vice President Kamala Harris also spoke by phone with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
The Pentagon said in a statement later that Mr Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to "express support for the people of Israel and receive updates on Israel's efforts to restore security and safety from the Hamas offensive".
The Pentagon also said Mr. Austin emphasized that the US steps "were taken to strengthen the US military posture in the region and to enhance regional deterrence efforts."
The Hamas attack in the early hours of October 7 was the largest and deadliest attack on Israel since Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack during the Yom Kippur War 50 years ago.
Hoang Nam (according to Reuters)
Source
Comment (0)