• By Imran Zafar
  • Sun, 29 Sep 2024 09:14 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

The United States on Sunday announced plans to strengthen its military presence in the Middle East in response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorised the deployment of additional "defensive" air-support capabilities and placed other forces on heightened readiness, a Pentagon statement read. The move comes as tensions rise in the region following Israeli strikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah.

In its official statement, the US Department of Defense (DoD) emphasised its ability to respond quickly to emerging threats in the Middle East. "The United States retains the capability to deploy forces on short notice," the statement read. The DoD also noted its ongoing adjustment of force posture based on the evolving security situation. 

"This afloat posture is complemented by DoD’s elevated fighter and attack squadron presence, including F-22, F-15E, F-16, and A-10 aircraft," the statement added, hinting at further reinforcements in the coming days.

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The Pentagon highlighted that Defense Secretary Austin increased the readiness of additional US forces to deploy in case the situation worsens. "Secretary Austin has elevated our preparedness to respond to various contingencies," said Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder. However, details regarding specific aircraft being deployed to the region were not provided.

Ryder further stated the US commitment to defending its personnel and interests in the region, warning that any attempt by Iran or its proxies to exploit the conflict would result in decisive US action.

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Meanwhile, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby stressed the need for a diplomatic approach to resolve the conflict in northern Israel. Speaking on Sunday, John Kirby stated that an all-out war with Hezbollah or Iran would not ensure the safe return of displaced Israeli residents to their homes. "If you want to get those folks back home safely and sustainably, we believe that a diplomatic path is the right course," he told CNN.

Israel has intensified its attacks on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, aiming to secure its northern regions from rocket fire. Kirby underscored that while US support for Israel's security remains "ironclad," the two allies do not always align on tactical decisions regarding the protection of civilians.

According to Lebanon's Health Ministry, the conflict has claimed more than 1,000 Lebanese lives and injured over 6,000 in the past two weeks. The Lebanese government estimates that one million people, roughly a fifth of Lebanon's population, have been displaced due to the violence.