Defense Secretary Austin Voices Grave Concerns Over Escalation in the Middle East

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin expressed on Sunday that there is a worry regarding the possibility of an increase in tensions in the Middle East. This comes after the recent announcement of deploying additional military resources to the region. Austin highlighted the potential for a substantial surge in attacks on American troops and civilians throughout the area. As a result, necessary measures will be taken to ensure the safety and protection of our forces and to maintain the capability to respond effectively.

On Saturday night, Austin announced the deployment of more missile defense systems and additional US troops in the Middle East. These deployments join a series of other US military movements that have taken place since Hamas attacked Israel two weeks ago. These movements include the deployment of a US Marine rapid response force that consists of 2,000 Marines and sailors, as well as the ordering of two carrier groups to the eastern Mediterranean. The purpose of these movements is to deter Iran, Syria, and Hezbollah from opening new fronts against Israel.

US officials have previously emphasized that there are no plans to involve American troops in ground combat in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Israeli officials have warned that this conflict could be prolonged and challenging.

Austin stated that the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery, along with additional Patriot battalions, in various locations in the region aimed at protecting US troops. The THAAD and Patriot systems are both air defense systems specifically designed to intercept short, medium, and intermediate ballistic missiles.

In the past week, a US Navy warship operating in the Middle East successfully intercepted multiple projectiles near the coast of Yemen. These projectiles were fired by Iranian-backed Houthi militants, who are currently involved in an ongoing conflict within the country. Additionally, there have been a series of incidents in recent days where US bases in Syria and Iraq have been targeted by drones, and American embassies in the region have faced protests.

"After extensive discussions with President Biden regarding recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces in the Middle East Region, I have directed the implementation of a series of additional measures to enhance the Department of Defense's position in the region. These actions will reinforce deterrence efforts in the area, strengthen force protection for U.S. forces, and provide support for the defense of Israel," stated Austin.

Prior to Israel's imminent ground incursion into Gaza, the Defense Secretary expressed to ABC his support for Israeli officials, particularly Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, to carry out their operations in compliance with international laws of warfare.

Israel is being urged to prioritize the safety of innocent civilians and take necessary measures to prevent their harm. These include accounting for civilians in the battle zone, establishing safe passages for their evacuation if needed, and facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid. Furthermore, Austin expressed strong support for a two-state solution.

CNNs Jim Sciutto, Natasha Bertrand, Oren Liebermann, Michael Callahan and Jack Forrest contributed to this report.