Pentagon steps up US military readiness in Mideast

WASHINGTON: The Pentagon moved Saturday to step up US military readiness in the Middle East in response to what it said “recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces” across the region.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin ordered the activation of air defense systems and notified additional forces that they may be deployed soon.

Austin did not say how many US troops would be added to those already in the region.

The Pentagon’s moves came after what Austin described in a statement as “detailed discussions” with President Joe Biden.

“These steps will bolster regional deterrence efforts, increase force protection for US forces in the region, and assist in the defense of Israel,” Austin said.

The steps continued the Biden administration’s response since Hamas in the Gaza Strip stormed Israel on October 7, taking more than 200 hostages and killing at least 1,400 people, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has since vowed to destroy Hamas, and claims around 1,500 of the group’s fighters were killed in clashes.

Austin said he had activated deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and additional Patriot battalions “throughout the region.”

“Finally, I have placed an additional number of forces on prepare to deploy orders as part of prudent contingency planning, to increase their readiness and ability to quickly respond as required,” Austin said.

Tensions are rising along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon after the Israeli army traded fire with Hezbollah group amid fears of a new front opening as Israel battles Hamas.

In south Lebanon on Saturday, Hezbollah said four of its fighters were killed. Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad said one of its fighters was also killed.

Armed factions close to Iran have threatened to attack US interests in Iraq over Washington’s support for Israel.

US troops stationed at two bases in Iraq were targeted with rocket attacks Friday that caused no casualties.

Since Wednesday, three Iraqi bases used by US-led coalition troops have been targeted in five separate attacks — Ain al-Assad, the Al-Harir base in northern Iraq and a military camp near Baghdad airport.

Israel’s military said Saturday it would intensify strikes on Hamas-controlled Gaza ahead of a planned ground invasion.

The military has pounded Gaza with relentless strikes in response to Hamas’s October 7 attack.

The bombing campaign has killed more than 4,300 Palestinians, mainly civilians, according to the health ministry, and reduced swathes of the densely populated territory to ruins.

A first trickle of aid entered the Palestinian enclave from Egypt on Saturday, but the 20 trucks permitted to cross have been described as a “drop in the ocean” given the needs of 2.4 million residents.