The US has deployed its cutting-edge aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, to the eastern Mediterranean to bolster Israel’s defense against ongoing conflicts with Hamas. The deployment aims to deter further escalation and is part of a larger show of force sent to the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford, accompanied by approximately 5,000 sailors and a fleet of warplanes, will be joined by other naval vessels, including cruisers and destroyers. This deployment allows the US to respond quickly to any situation, including preventing weapons from reaching Hamas and conducting surveillance.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 1,000 reported dead on both sides, with most, if not all, of those reported dead or missing being dual US-Israeli citizens. President Joe Biden had a telephone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the situation, emphasizing the importance of united action against brutal atrocities. The US is also augmenting Air Force fighter aircraft squadrons in the region, including F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 units.
This deployment demonstrates the US’s unwavering support for Israel, with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stating that the US maintains ready forces globally to reinforce its deterrence posture. President Biden has vowed that the US will never fail to stand by Israel’s side. The situation highlights the complexities and challenges of ongoing conflicts in fragile regions and the need for continued diplomacy and international cooperation to prevent further escalation.
The US response is designed to deter further violence and support Israel’s efforts to defend itself against Hamas attacks. This deployment serves as a testament to the US’s commitment to Israel’s security and its willingness to take action to prevent the conflict from spiraling out of control.