The US continues to monitor Iran’s plans to attack Israel

WASHINGTON – United States (USA) Defense Minister Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke on Friday (16/8/2024) about growing tensions in the Middle East.

“Austin and Gallant exchanged views on regional instability and the growing threat posed by Iran, Lebanese groups, Hezbollah, and groups throughout the Middle East,” said spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.

“Austin told Gallant that the US is monitoring attack plans from Iran and its proxies and is well positioned throughout the region to defend Israel and protect US personnel and facilities, Ryder said.

The two defense chiefs also discussed progress towards securing a ceasefire and the release of all hostages, including eight Americans, held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The Pentagon announced earlier this month that the US would send additional military assets to the Middle East ahead of possible Iranian retaliation against Israel.

Austin ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, equipped with F-35C fighter jets, to accelerate the move to the Central Command’s area of ​​responsibility.

The move adds to the capabilities already provided by the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group.

In addition, he ordered the guided missile submarine “USS Georgia” to the Central Command area.

“There are approximately 40,000 US personnel in the US Central Command area of ​​responsibility,” Pentagon spokesman Tom Crosson said.

“On a regular basis, there are about 34,000 in the area,” Crosson explained.