Pentagon chief vows strong response to any Iranian aggression towards US personnel

Should Iran, its partners, or its proxies use this moment to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take every necessary measure to defend our people, said US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin.

According to him, the primary focus for him and Department of Defense (DoD) leaders remains the safety of US citizens and personnel in the region, the defence of Israel, and the reduction of tensions through deterrence and diplomacy, Caliber.Az reports referring to the US Department of Defense.

Throughout the weekend, Austin has been receiving updates and providing guidance to his team regarding the latest developments in the Middle East.

Secretary Austin emphasised that the US is determined to prevent Iran and its allied groups from taking advantage of the situation or expanding the conflict.

The US maintains the ability to deploy forces rapidly, with the Department of Defense continuing to adapt its military presence based on the evolving security situation.

Austin has directed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to remain in the US Central Command (USCENTCOM) region, while the USS Wasp Amphibious Ready Group will continue operations in the Eastern Mediterranean.

This posture is supported by an elevated presence of fighter jets, including F-22s, F-15Es, F-16s, and A-10s, with plans to further enhance air support capabilities in the coming days.

Additionally, the Secretary has raised the readiness of further US forces to deploy, ensuring they are prepared for various scenarios. The Department also maintains strong and integrated air-defence systems across the Middle East to protect US personnel in the area.

By Aghakazim Guliyev