USA (Washington Insider Magazine) – The Pentagon has announced the deployment of additional fighter jets and navy warships to the Middle East, anticipating possible retaliation from Iran and its allies following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which Iran attributes to Israel.
The consecutive killings of Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut have spurred international diplomats to prevent a regional war. Major airlines, including Lufthansa, Delta, and Air India, have cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut due to escalating tensions. France has advised its citizens to leave Iran, while Cyprus has expanded evacuation plans.
Military Readiness and Strategic Movements
According to Theguardian, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has authorized the deployment of cruisers and destroyers from the Navy to prevent ballistic missiles from reaching Europe and the Middle East. Also being dispatched to the area will be a second squadron of fighter aircraft. The Pentagon stated that these adjustments aim to protect US forces, support Israel’s defense, and prepare for various contingencies.
Before April 13, the US had intensified military deployments when Iran launched a missile and drone attack on Israeli territory, which was largely intercepted. The threat from Hezbollah, with its vast arsenal and proximity to Israel, presents unique challenges to US interception efforts.
Israeli Preparations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the country is on high alert for any scenario. The Israeli government has issued satellite phones to ministers in case of communication disruptions following potential Iranian retaliation. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for Haniyeh’s assassination but has celebrated the action domestically.
Iran and Hamas have accused Israel of the killings and vowed to retaliate. Crowds gathered in Doha and Tehran for Haniyeh’s funeral. US President Joe Biden called the assassination “not helpful” and stressed the need for a ceasefire in discussions with Netanyahu.
Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh expressed hope for de-escalation, stressing the potential for a ceasefire agreement. An Israeli delegation is set to travel to Cairo to negotiate a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri accused Netanyahu of using ceasefire talks to deflect from ongoing conflicts.
