United States: The US plans to deploy more military ships and aircraft near Israel to demonstrate support after the unexpected assault by Hamas, a Palestinian armed group.
US Defence Secretary Mr. Lloyd Austin announced that Washington would boost military assistance and supply ammunition to Israel. Hamas called the US announcement an “aggression” against Palestinians.
“The announcement of the US that it will provide an aircraft carrier to support the occupation is actual participation in the aggression against our people,” Hamas said in a statement.
Israel has launched air strikes on the Gaza Strip, causing casualties on both sides, with hundreds reportedly killed on October 8, 2023.
Mr. Austin mentioned that the recent attack by Hamas might aim to disrupt potential improvements in relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
The US Defence Secretary stated that security aid to Israel will start moving on October 8, 2023, and the US will also be sending additional fighter jets to the region. The US has directed the relocation of a carrier strike group closer to Israel, including the Ford carrier and its supporting ships.
“I have directed the movement of the USS Gerald R Ford Carrier Strike Group to the Eastern Mediterranean,” Mr. Austin remarked.
US President Mr. Joe Biden assured Israeli Prime Minister Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu on October 8, 2023, that more support for the Israeli army was on its way.
Meanwhile, US Vice President Ms. Kamala Harris had a conversation with Israeli President Mr. Isaac Herzog.
RELATED | UNSC fails to achieve joint statement on Gaza-Israel conflict
