The Pentagon has ordered a second aircraft carrier strike group, the USS Eisenhower, to join the USS Ford in the eastern Mediterranean near Israel. The move is aimed at deterring Iran or Hezbollah from getting involved in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed the deployment, stating that it is part of an effort to deter hostile actions against Israel and prevent the war from widening. The presence of the USS Ford and additional U.S. Air Force fighter jets in the region is intended to demonstrate the U.S.’s commitment to Israel and serve as a deterrent to Iran and Hezbollah. The addition of the USS Eisenhower will further enhance the show of force and message of deterrence. The Pentagon is also considering deploying the USS Bataan amphibious assault ship to provide additional support if needed.
The USS Eisenhower was originally scheduled for a deployment to the Middle East via the Mediterranean Sea to participate in previously-scheduled exercises. Speculation arose that it might join the USS Ford in the eastern Mediterranean, but a statement from the Pentagon only mentioned that Defense Secretary Austin will review the deployment plans of both carriers to ensure the appropriate balance of maritime capability across theaters. The USS Eisenhower strike group consists of the aircraft carrier USS Eisenhower, the guided missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea, and the guided missile destroyers USS Laboon, USS Mason, and USS Gravely. The USS Ford strike group, which arrived in the waters of the eastern Mediterranean earlier this week, includes the carrier USS Ford, the cruiser USS Normandy, and the destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt.
