The US military will deploy additional fighters and Navy warships to the Middle East

The U.S. military will send additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the Middle East, according to a Pentagon announcement on Friday. This move aims to strengthen defenses amid threats from Iran and its allies, Hamas and Hezbollah.

The deployment comes in response to Iran's threat to retaliate for the recent killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This killing is part of a series of attacks targeting senior members of the Palestinian militant group, amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has approved the addition of Navy cruisers and destroyers, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, to the Middle East and Europe. An extra squadron of fighter jets will also be sent to the region.

The Pentagon stated, "Austin has ordered adjustments to U.S. military posture to enhance U.S. force protection, increase support for Israel's defense, and ensure the U.S. is ready to address various contingencies."

The U.S. military had already ramped up its presence before April 13, when Iran launched a drone and missile attack on Israeli territory. The threat from Hezbollah in Lebanon remains a concern, given the group's substantial arsenal and proximity to Israel. Despite these challenges, Israel, with U.S. and allied support, managed to intercept nearly all of the 300 drones and missiles during the attack.

President Biden discussed these new defensive measures with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu on Thursday. Both Iran and Hamas have accused Israel of orchestrating the killing and have vowed retaliation. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in the incident.