USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group Sets Sail to Support Israel and Deter Hamas Amid Escalating Conflict

In response to the recent attack by Hamas that has resulted in over 1,000 deaths, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to sail to the Eastern Mediterranean to support Israel. The deployment includes the Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, along with cruisers and destroyers. This show of force aims to interdict weapons from reaching Hamas and conduct surveillance, reflecting the U.S.'s desire to deter any regional expansion of the conflict. Preliminary reports indicate that several American citizens were killed in the attacks, with additional individuals still missing.

The U.S. government is working to gather a fuller accounting of the casualties. Most, if not all, of the victims are dual U.S.-Israeli citizens. In response to the escalation of the conflict, the Israeli government has formally declared war and authorized significant military steps to retaliate against Hamas. To bolster support for Israel, the Biden administration will be rapidly providing the Israeli Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including munitions.

The first shipments of security assistance have already begun to move towards Israel. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have discussed the situation, with Biden offering additional assistance for Israeli forces, both currently and in the days to come. As part of the U.S. effort to prevent further escalation, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has engaged in conversations with counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. These discussions emphasize the U.S.'s focus on halting the attacks by Hamas and securing the release of all hostages.

Domestically, leaders of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the U.S. House are preparing a bipartisan resolution that condemns Hamas' actions and expresses solidarity with Israel. The movement of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean is part of a broader effort by the U.S. to support Israel and enhance regional deterrence. Alongside the deployment, the U.S. Air Force is augmenting fighter aircraft squadrons in the region. Secretary Austin reaffirms the United States' unwavering support for the Israel Defense Forces and the Israeli people, ensuring close contact with Israeli counterparts to provide necessary resources for defense against terrorist attacks.