Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that, as a show of support, the United States would dispatch numerous military ships and aircraft closer to Israel.
Washington believes that the deadly attacks by Hamas may have been carried out to thwart any prospective normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. On Saturday, Israel experienced its bloodiest day in decades as Hamas fighters rampaged through Israeli villages. On Sunday, Israel bombarded Palestinians in Gaza with airstrikes; hundreds of people are said to have died on both sides. The Middle East is on the verge of a major new conflict due to the increasing violence. According to a U.S. letter seen by CNN on Sunday, at least three Americans were among those slain.
Austin claimed to have ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group to move closer to Israel in the Eastern Mediterranean. The force comprises a guided missile cruiser, a carrier, and four guided missile destroyers. Furthermore, Austin mentioned plans to expand the U.S. Air Force’s fighter aircraft squadrons in the area, including F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 aircraft. The United States, according to him, would also provide ammunition to Israel. Following their phone call, the White House announced that U.S. President Joe Biden had informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that more support for the Israeli Defense Forces was on the way and would arrive in the following days. President Isaac Herzog of Israel and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris spoke over the phone.
In a subsequent statement from the Pentagon, it was revealed that Austin engaged in a conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. During their discussion, Austin offered an update on the United States’ actions and conveyed solidarity with the Israeli people. Additionally, he sought to stay informed about Israel’s efforts to regain security and safety following the terrorist attack by Hamas. The statement continued, “The Secretary reiterated the United States’ steadfast support for Israel’s right to self-defense.” Austin stated that the U.S. actions aimed to bolster its military presence in the region to support deterrence efforts.
On Sunday, a small group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in Times Square in New York City and close to the White House in Washington to protest against American support for Israel. Some protesters carried signs that read ‘End U.S. aid’ and ‘Resistance is not terrorism.’
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York denounced the proposed protests as ‘morally repugnant’ on Saturday. The offensive by Hamas began at daybreak on Saturday and was the largest and deadliest invasion of Israel since Egypt and Syria launched an unexpected assault to retake lost territory in the Yom Kippur War 50 years ago.
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