US to deploy nuclear submarine to Middle East, Pentagon says
Photo: US and Israeli flags (Getty Images)
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has ordered the USS Georgia nuclear submarine to be sent to the Middle East, as well as to speed up the deployment of the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, according to the Pentagon.
The document says that Austin had a telephone conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. During the conversation, he reaffirmed the United States' commitment to taking all possible steps to protect Israel and emphasized the strengthening of the US military presence in the Middle East amid escalating tensions in the region.
Reaffirming the commitment, Austin ordered the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN carrier strike group, which is equipped with F-35 fighters, to accelerate its transition to the Central Command area of responsibility. At the same time, the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt is already in the region.
In addition, the Pentagon chief ordered the USS Georgia, a guided missile submarine, to be sent to the Central Command area.
Also during the phone call, Austin and Gallant discussed Israeli operations in Gaza and efforts to conclude a ceasefire agreement and release hostages.
In addition, the conversation focused on efforts to deter aggression by Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, and other Iranian-affiliated groups throughout the region.
Due to the increased risk of attacks from Iran, Israel is strengthening the defense of its infrastructure. The authorities believe that additional caution is justified.
Israeli intelligence has concluded that Iran has decided to attack them and may do so in the coming days.
