AUGUST 2, 2024, Washington
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has told Israel about changes to US forces in the Middle East. This includes current and future adjustments. The Pentagon said this on Wednesday, mentioning threats from Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
The US military will send more fighter jets and Navy ships to the Middle East. The Pentagon announced this on Friday. The United States wants to strengthen defenses because of threats from Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
These changes come as the US expects Iran to respond to the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran two days ago. This killing is part of ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said Austin informed Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant about the new defensive measures. This includes ongoing and future changes to support Israel’s defense