A US Marine rapid response force is being deployed to the waters off the coast of Israel, while the Pentagon is also making preparations for a potential deployment of American troops to the country. This move is part of an escalated show of force by the US in the region, aimed at preventing any further escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
According to a defense official familiar with the planning, the rapid response force, which includes 2,000 Marines and sailors, is being sent to join the increasing number of US warships and forces gathering in Israel. The intention behind this is to convey a message of deterrence to Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has directed approximately 2,000 troops to be ready for deployment to Israel, providing assistance such as medical aid and logistical support, according to defense officials. The objective of these actions is to prevent a broader regional conflict, officials claim. However, this also poses a challenge for the Biden administration, as they seek to avoid direct military intervention in the ongoing conflict.
Aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower deploys from Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 14, 2023
Petty Officer 2nd Class Anderson W. Branch/Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet
US sending second carrier strike group, fighter jets to region as Israel prepares to expand Gaza operations
Officials have emphasized that the United States has no intention of deploying American troops to engage in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, a conflict that Israeli officials have cautioned could be protracted and challenging.
However, the preparation and actions provide insight into the type of aid that the United States may offer, such as overseeing logistical operations behind the battle lines and providing medical assistance. This assistance could be of great value, especially in the event that Israel launches a ground invasion of Gaza, a situation experts have warned could be intricate and violent.
Troops preparing
Additionally, these choices are being made amidst the continuous augmentation of the US military's presence in the Middle East. This includes the deployment of a second aircraft carrier to the eastern Mediterranean Sea, which will be joining the USS Ford strike carrier group there, as well as the dispatch of Air Force fighter jets to the region.The Pentagon has been careful in its communication regarding the possible deployment of US troops to Israel, as the Biden administration aims to avoid giving the perception that American troops might become involved in an intense conflict. However, they are making preparations for various scenarios in case the situation worsens.
The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), known for its expertise in amphibious operations, crisis response, humanitarian assistance, and special operations, recently relocated from its stationed position near Kuwait. This early departure was prompted by "emerging events," according to Capt. Angelica White, the unit's spokesperson, as stated in an interview with the Marine Corps Times. CNN had previously mentioned the unit's preparations for a potential deployment to Israel.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks to members of the media before leaving Cairo, Egypt, Sunday Oct. 15, 2023, en route to Jordan. Jacquelyn Martin/Pool via REUTERS
Jacquelyn Martin/Pool/Reuters
The US is mounting a frantic effort to head off a wider Middle East war
Officials did not disclose the precise destination of the Marine unit, but confirmed that it is en route to Israel. It is possible that the unit will remain in the Red Sea, situated off the southern coast of Israel, which would strategically position US forces near both coastlines. The unit is currently stationed on the USS Bataan, an amphibious assault ship located in the Gulf of Oman. The USS Bataan and the 26th MEU have been deployed in the Middle East since August, with the objective of deterring Iranian aggression in crucial waterways such as the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz.
Austins directive to ready troops for potential deployment does not guarantee their actual deployment or their involvement in combat if they are sent to Israel, according to officials. However, officials stated that the secretary's decision has reduced the preparation time for the troops identified for the mission, assuming they are given orders to proceed. The Wall Street Journal initially reported on the potential deployment of troops to Israel. When asked about this possible development, Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh stated on Monday, "I cannot provide further information at this moment. I may be able to offer more details later, but currently, I have nothing specific to add."
