Security support begins with fighter jet reinforcement
Blocking additional weapon inflow to Hamas
At least 4 Americans dead, 7 missing
Majority hold dual Israeli nationality
The U.S. government announced on the 8th that it will deploy an aircraft carrier strike group and provide military equipment to support Israel's response to the attack by the Islamic militant group Hamas.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stated this policy in a statement on the same day. Secretary Austin said, "The United States maintains a global readiness posture to further strengthen deterrence if necessary."
Austin ordered the Gerald Ford carrier strike group to move to the eastern Mediterranean first. The strike group consists of the aircraft carrier Gerald Ford, the cruiser Normandy, and the destroyers Thomas Hudner, Momiji, Carney, and Roosevelt.
The Gerald Ford, officially commissioned in 2017, is known as the largest aircraft carrier currently in service. It measures approximately 351 meters in length, about 41 meters in beam (80 meters on the flight deck), with a displacement of 112,000 tons, and can carry more than 75 aircraft.
The Department of Defense also took measures to reinforce fighter squadrons in the region, including F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 aircraft.
According to the Associated Press, the forward deployment of the carrier strike group and the additional deployment of fighter jets are intended as a show of force to block weapons that could flow into Hamas and to monitor their activities. At the same time, this also reflects concerns about the escalation of the conflict.
The Department of Defense plans to quickly provide the Israeli military with necessary military equipment and resources, including ammunition. As part of this, the first security assistance supplies departed on the same day and are expected to arrive within a few days, Secretary Austin said.
In his statement, Secretary Austin said, "Our strengthening of military posture and rapid provision of supplies demonstrate the United States' unwavering support for the Israeli military and people," adding, "We will continue to maintain close contact with Israel to ensure they have everything necessary to protect their citizens from ruthless terrorists."
Earlier, President Biden spoke by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again on the same day, following a call the previous day, reaffirming full support.
According to a White House press release, President Biden said during the call, "We pledge our full support to the government and people of Israel facing an unprecedented and horrific attack by Hamas terrorists."
The two leaders discussed Hamas's kidnapping of entire families, elderly people, and children as hostages during the call.
President Biden stated, "There is no justification for terrorism," and added, "All nations must unite against such brutal atrocities." He also reaffirmed the ongoing security support policy for Israel.
Meanwhile, the Associated Press, citing U.S. government officials, reported that at least four Americans have died and seven are missing due to Hamas's attack on Israel. Most of the deceased and missing Americans are known to hold dual citizenship.
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