The US is sending jets and warships to the region because Iran has threatened Israel.
The United States is sending more warships and fighter jets to the Middle East to help protect Israel from potential attacks by Iran and its allies. The Pentagon said this is in response to increased tensions in the region.
Tensions rose after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and the killing of a top commander of Hezbollah, a militant group in Lebanon. The Pentagon has also put missile defense forces on high alert and reassured that it is firmly committed to defending Israel.
Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, has promised severe retaliation against Israel for Haniyeh’s death and declared three days of national mourning. Haniyeh was killed in Tehran, and Iran, along with its Gaza allies, blamed Israel for the attack, though Israel has not officially commented.
The assassination of Haniyeh came shortly after Israel claimed responsibility for killing Fuad Shukr, a high-ranking military commander of Hezbollah. The Pentagon said that sending additional ships and jets will help protect U.S. forces, support Israel’s defense, and prepare for any possible situations.
The U.S. military had already increased its presence before April 13, when Iran launched a drone and missile attack on Israel. Most of these were intercepted by Israel and its allies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has mentioned that Israel has recently dealt significant blows to its enemies, including Shukr’s killing. He also warned of challenging times ahead and stated that Israel is ready for any situation.
Despite the heightened tensions, the Pentagon’s spokesperson, Sabrina Singh, indicated that the U.S. does not believe the situation will inevitably escalate further and hopes for a ceasefire deal. An Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Cairo soon to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
The current conflict began on October 7, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people. In response, Israel has been conducting a military operation in Gaza, which has resulted in nearly 40,000 deaths, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
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