The U.S. military is reportedly expanding its presence in the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the terrorist organization Hamas.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has announced that the military added more American troops on prepare-to-deploy orders to the Middle East following a discussion with President Joe Biden on “recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces across the Middle East Region.”
“I have placed an additional number of forces on prepare to deploy orders as part of prudent contingency planning, to increase their readiness and ability to quickly respond as required,” Austin said in a statement on Sunday.
The Pentagon has already said that the number of forces placed on prepare-to-deploy orders was around 2,000, though the exact number was not disclosed. Some troops would come from the U.S. and some from within Europe or other areas of operation.
Austin added that he has also activated the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and extra Patriot battalions to various places across the region to strengthen security for American forces.
The defense secretary said that the steps were to “bolster regional deterrence efforts, increase force protection for U.S. forces in the region, and assist in the defense of Israel.”
This comes after the Iran-backed Hamas attacked Israel and invaded towns along the Gaza border earlier this month, killing at least 700 people. As of last week, the death toll has risen to 1,200, according to IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus.
The attack prompted Israel to declare war against the terrorist group with a ruthless aerial campaign that has flattened homes, schools, medical institutions, and government buildings in the Gaza Strip.
Biden has since pledged his support for Israel, with his administration already moving military units to the country as well as supplying them with munitions and interceptors to ensure the Iron Dome defense system has enough supplies.
“We stand with Israel. We stand with Israel. And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself, and respond to this attack,” he said in remarks from the State Dining Room. “There is no justification for terrorism. There is no excuse.”