The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford has been deployed to the eastern Mediterranean Sea as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas, US defense officials said Sunday.
Accompanying the aircraft carrier was a strike group of warships and a squadron of Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter jets, according to the Pentagon.
“My thoughts continue to be with the people of Israel and the many families who lost loved ones to the despicable terrorist attacks by Hamas,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.
Moving warships in the eastern Mediterranean would better position the US to strengthen Israel and potentially defend America.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Sunday that Americans may be among those killed, wounded, and held hostage.
USS Gerald R. Ford is one of the largest aircraft carriers in the world.AP
Some politicians — like Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.) — has float the possibility sending special forces to recover any potential American hostages.
Austin pledged to maintain US aid to Israel as it grapples with violence erupting within its borders.
“In addition, the United States government will rapidly provide additional equipment and resources to the Israel Defense Forces, including ammunition,” Austin continued. “The first rescue aid will start moving today and arrive in the next few days.”
Lloyd Austin reiterated US support for Israel as it battles Hamas.AFP via Getty Images
Waships in the strike group accompanying USS Gerald R. Ford include: Arleigh-Burke-class guided-missile destroyer 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), per the Pentagon.
As of Sunday afternoon, the death toll was at least 700 dead and 2,100 missing on the Israeli side, according to health officials.
On the Palestinian side, more than 313 Palestinians were reported dead and 1,990 were reported missing, including 20 killed 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 had several phone calls with Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu and reaffirmed US support for the Jewish State.
Israel declared war on Hamas – the first declared war since 1973 – and vowed to emerge victorious.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
