The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford was deployed to the eastern Mediterranean Sea as Israel continued its offensive against Hamas, US defense officials said on Sunday.
Accompanying the carrier will be a strike group of warships, as well as squadrons of Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16 and A-10 fighter jets, according to the Pentagon.
“My thoughts remain with the people of Israel and the many families who have lost loved ones as a result of Hamas’ abhorrent terrorist attack,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.
Maneuvering warships in the eastern Mediterranean will better position the United States to reinforce Israel and potentially defend the Americans.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Sunday that Americans may be among the dead, injured and taken hostage.
The USS Gerald R. Ford is one of the largest aircraft carriers in the world.AP
Some politicians, like Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.), have the possibility floated to send special forces to recover possible American hostages.
Austin pledged to maintain American assistance to Israel as it grapples with violence erupting within its borders.
“In addition, the United States government will promptly provide the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including ammunition,” Austin continued. “The first security assistance will begin moving today and will arrive in the coming days.”
Lloyd Austin reiterated US support for Israel in its fight against Hamas. AFP via Getty Images
Strike group ships accompanying USS Gerald R. Ford include: the Arleigh-Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS Carney (DDG 64), and USS Roosevelt ( DDG 80), as well as the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), according to the Pentagon.
As of Sunday afternoon, the death toll stood at least 700 and 2,100 missing on the Israeli side, according to health officials.
On the Palestinian side, more than 313 Palestinians are reported dead and 1,990 missing, including 20 dead and 121 children injured, according to the Ministry of Health.
A fighter jet lands on the US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford.NTB/AFP via Getty Images
Biden has received multiple phone calls with Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu and has affirmed US support for the Jewish state.
Israel declared war on Hamas (its first declared war since 1973) and vowed to emerge victorious.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn