The Pentagon has warned that an attack by Iran on Israel is "certainly possible" this week and has deployed additional military assets to the region to enhance its defense capabilities.
The Pentagon has issued a somber warning, stating that an attack by Iran on Israel is "certainly possible" this week. The threat has prompted the United States to bolster its military presence in the Middle East to safeguard its forces and support Israel's defense.
US Prepares for Possible Iranian Attack This Week, Bolsters Presence in Middle East
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder informed reporters on Tuesday that an Iranian attack on Israel is a plausible scenario this week. Ryder emphasized the seriousness of the threat, prompting the deployment of additional resources to the region.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and the USS Georgia guided missile submarine to the Middle East. These deployments augment the capabilities provided by the already present USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group.
US Prepares for Possible Iranian Attack This Week, Bolsters Presence in Middle East
The US military's force posture adjustments aim to enhance force protection and provide support for Israel's defense in the event of an attack. Ryder assured that the US military is focused on de-escalating tensions in the region.
In response to questions about the circumstances that would trigger a US attack on Iran, Ryder stated that the US military prioritizes de-escalation. However, he reiterated that the US is "extremely clear" in its support for Israel's defense, as evidenced by the deployment of additional capabilities to the region.
US Prepares for Possible Iranian Attack This Week, Bolsters Presence in Middle East
Fox News' Lucas Tomlinson repeatedly pressed Ryder to convey an explicit threat of US retaliation against Iran in the event of an attack on Israel. Ryder maintained that the deployment of additional capabilities sends a "very clear signal" of US support for Israel's defense.
Austin has ordered the USS Lincoln to the Middle East twice in the past ten days, with the second order coming on Sunday with a sense of urgency. Ryder attributed this to the complexities of managing global naval fleets.
US Prepares for Possible Iranian Attack This Week, Bolsters Presence in Middle East
Amid the heightened tensions, the White House has also expressed concerns about a potential Iranian attack this week. The US military remains vigilant, monitoring the situation and responding to any contingencies that may arise.
The Pentagon's warning serves as a stark reminder of the volatile geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. The potential for an Iranian attack on Israel has raised concerns and prompted the United States to take proactive measures to safeguard its interests and support its allies in the region.
