UK Defence Journal

By George Allison

30 September 2024

Source: https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/america-building-up-forces-in-middle-east-amid-tensions/

USS Abraham Lincoln

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced a significant increase in its military presence in the Middle East as tensions in the region continue to rise.

Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder said that U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered key U.S. naval and air units to stay on alert and positioned to protect American personnel, support Israel, and deter potential threats from Iran and its allies.

As part of this move, the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group will remain in the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area, while the USS Wasp Amphibious Ready Group and Marine Expeditionary Unit will keep operating in the Eastern Mediterranean. 

These ships are supported by fighter jets, including F-22s, F-15Es, F-16s, and A-10s, all ready to respond quickly if things escalate.

Defence Secretary Austin stressed that the U.S. is focused on stopping Iran and its proxies from using the current unrest to their advantage. 

“The United States is determined to prevent Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies from expanding the conflict or targeting American personnel and interests,” Austin said. He also issued a firm warning: 

“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.”

The Pentagon has also raised the readiness of additional U.S. forces, meaning they can be deployed at a moment’s notice. “The United States retains the capability to deploy forces on short notice,” Ryder added, highlighting that the U.S. military is prepared to adjust its strategy as the situation changes.

The statement also pointed out that U.S. forces in the region are equipped with strong air-defence systems to protect American troops. The Pentagon plans to bring in more air-support units in the coming days, ensuring they can act quickly if needed.

While the U.S. is increasing its military presence, it’s also working hard to de-escalate the situation. According to Ryder, Secretary Austin and other defence leaders are focused on “the protection of U.S. citizens and forces in the region, the defence of Israel, and the de-escalation of the situation through deterrence and diplomacy.”

As the situation remains tense, the U.S. military stands ready to defend its personnel and interests, while also working to prevent the conflict from spreading.