US sends more fighter jets and ships to Middle East amid rising tensions
The US will send additional warships and fighter jets to the Middle East to help Israel defend against a possible attack by Iran and its allies, the Pentagon announced on Saturday. Tensions are rising in the region following the deaths of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and a senior Hezbollah commander this week.
According to the Wall Street Journal, a retaliatory strike could come as early as this weekend. It is feared that this attack will be larger and more complex than Iran's previous retaliation in mid-April, when it fired hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel.
The US increased its presence in the region in April. Unlike then, there is now radio silence in diplomatic circles, according to the Wall Street Journal, making the situation particularly dangerous. The Pentagon is standing by Israel, saying its support for the country is "ironclad".
Despite the rising tensions, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that a delegation from his country will travel to Cairo, Egypt, in the next few days to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages.
© PHOTO SAMUEL CORUM / AFP
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