Pentagon announces deployment of additional troops to Middle East

The Pentagon has declared that the U.S. is dispatching “a few thousand” troops to the Middle East to enhance security and provide defence for Israel if needed. 

This announcement comes in the wake of Israel's limited raids into Lebanon, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

With this deployment, the total number of U.S. troops in the region is expected to rise to approximately 43,000. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh revealed that this increased military presence will include multiple squadrons of fighter jets and attack aircraft. Additionally, small numbers of other personnel will be included to bolster the existing forces.

The announcement follows recent airstrikes in Lebanon and the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

The incoming troops will consist of squadrons equipped with F-15E, F-16, and F-22 fighter jets, as well as A-10 attack aircraft, along with the necessary support personnel. Unlike the initial plan to rotate in the new squadrons to replace those already in the region, both existing and new squadrons will remain, effectively doubling the available airpower.

On September 29, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the temporary extension of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and its air wing in the region, which is expected to remain for about a month. Meanwhile, the USS Harry S. Truman, which departed Virginia last week, is en route to Europe and will also head to the Mediterranean, ensuring a two-carrier presence in the region. However, it is not expected to arrive for at least another week.

At the White House, President Joe Biden addressed concerns regarding reports of a potential limited ground incursion by Israel into Lebanon after nearly a year of conflict with Hezbollah. He expressed his desire for an immediate cease-fire, stating, “I’m more aware than you might know, and I’m comfortable with them stopping. We should have a cease-fire now.”

By Tamilla Hasanova