The U.S. is sending an “additional few thousand” troops to the Middle East amid escalating tensions following Israel’s deadly airstrikes on Lebanon, which last week resulted in the deaths of top Hezbollah leaders, according to Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.
On Monday, Singh stated that an unspecified number of troops have been placed on prepare-to-deploy orders. “Secretary Austin has increased the readiness of additional U.S. forces, elevating our preparedness to respond to various contingencies,” she told reporters. While she did not disclose specific details due to operational security, she emphasized that these forces encompass a wide range of capabilities and missions.
The Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon last week killed Hezbollah’s longstanding leader, Hassan Nasrallah, along with at least six other senior officials from the Iran-backed militant group, as well as over 1,000 civilians. Although the United States acknowledged that justice was served to Nasrallah, there are concerns that his death, along with the ongoing civilian casualties, could ignite a broader regional conflict.
In response to the evolving security situation, the Pentagon announced on Sunday that it would adjust its force posture. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has directed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to remain in the Middle East, while the USS Wasp Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) will continue its operations in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasized that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and military leaders are committed to protecting U.S. citizens and forces in the region, defending Israel, and pursuing de-escalation through deterrence and diplomacy.
Ryder stated, “Secretary Austin made it clear that if Iran, its partners, or proxies target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take all necessary measures to defend our people.”
The Defense Department plans to enhance U.S. military air defense support in the region over the coming days, deploying F-22, F-15E, F-16, and A-10 fighter jets.
According to spokesperson Singh, the additional air support consists of units that were previously scheduled to deploy, which will now augment existing forces rather than replace them. This includes extending the deployment of certain units already stationed in the Middle East and bringing in additional service members, amounting to “a few thousand” more personnel in the region.