U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin speaks during a press conference at the Pentagon on July 25, 2024, in Washington, DC.
Saul Loeb | AFP | Getty Images
The U.S. military said Sunday it is increasing its air support capabilities in the Middle East and preparing to deploy troops to the region as it warns Iran against escalating the ongoing conflict.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns that Israel’s killing of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah leader could prompt Iranian retaliation. This was done two days after the instructions were given.
“The United States is determined to prevent Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies from exploiting the situation or escalating the conflict,” Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder said in a statement.
He also warned that if Iran or Iranian government-backed groups “use this opportunity to target American persons or interests in the region, the United States will take all necessary steps to protect our people.” .
A Pentagon statement gave few clues about the size or scope of the new air deployment, saying only that it would “further strengthen defense air support capabilities in the coming days.”
Israel struck more targets in Lebanon on Sunday, pressing Hezbollah for new attacks following the killing of the group’s leader. Syed Hassan Nasrullahand a series of other top commanders participating in escalating military operations.
After nearly a year of cross-border shelling, the airstrikes have dealt Hezbollah a stunning series of blows, killing much of its leadership and exposing major security holes. But it also raises questions about the U.S. government’s publicly stated goals of containing conflicts and protecting U.S. military personnel across the Middle East.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Sunday that the United States is watching closely to see what Hezbollah does to fill the leadership vacuum and “continues to engage in dialogue with the Israeli side about what the right next steps are.” “
The US State Department has not yet ordered an evacuation from Lebanon. But last week, U.S. officials told Reuters that the Pentagon send Dozens of additional troops will be sent to Cyprus to help the military prepare for scenarios involving the evacuation of Americans from Lebanon.
The Pentagon said U.S. troops are ready to deploy if necessary.
”[Austin] “Preparations for additional U.S. military deployments have been increased and preparedness to respond to a variety of contingencies has been enhanced,” Ryder said in a statement.
