On Sunday (Sept. 29), the Pentagon raised readiness to deploy additional US military forces for a quick response in the event of an attack by Iran and its allies against US personnel and interests in the region. This was stated in a message by Pentagon spokesman Gen. Pat Ryder, published on the website of the US military department, conveyed FOCUS.
"Throughout the weekend, Minister (Lloyd) Austin has been updating and providing guidance to his team on the latest developments in the Middle East. He and Defense Department leaders remain focused on protecting American citizens and forces in the region, protecting Israel, and de-escalating the situation through deterrence and diplomacy.
Secretary Austin emphasized that the United States is determined to prevent Iran and its supported partners and proxies from taking advantage of the situation or escalating the conflict. "Secretary Austin clearly states that if Iran, its partners or proxies use this moment to attack American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take all necessary measures to protect our people," the statement said.
"The United States retains the ability to deploy forces on short notice. The Department of Defense continues to maintain significant capabilities in the region and dynamically adapt its force posture based on the changing security situation. The Secretary of Defense ordered the strike group of the aircraft carrier USS "Abraham Lincoln" (CSG) to remain in the USCENTCOM (United States Central Command) theater of operations, and the USS Wasp (ARG/MEU) Marine Amphibious Group to continue operating in the Eastern Mediterranean.
This floating position is complemented by the increased presence of MoD fighter and strike squadrons, including F-22, F-15E, F-16 and A-10 aircraft, and in the coming days we will further strengthen our defensive air support capabilities" ;, stated in the message of Gen. Pat Ryder.
"The Secretary has also increased readiness to deploy additional US forces, thereby increasing our readiness to respond to various contingencies. The Department of Defense maintains a robust and integrated air defense capability in the Middle East, ensuring the protection of US forces operating in the region.
Earlier "Hezbollah" confirmed the death of its Secretary General Hassan Nasrullah in an Israeli air strike on a southern suburb of Beirut.
Washington Post, citing its sources, reported that the administration of US President Joe Biden is finding it difficult to predict what will be the reaction of Iran and "Hezbollah" after the death of Nasrullah.