US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has taken decisive action in response to intelligence indicating an imminent Iranian attack against Israel. In a statement released by the Pentagon on Sunday evening, it was revealed that Austin has ordered a guided-missile submarine, the USS Georgia, to the Middle East. The submarine, armed with cruise missiles, was previously operating in the Mediterranean Sea and has now been deployed to the region.
The movement of the USS Georgia, a nuclear-powered submarine, is a rare public disclosure, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The Pentagon's decision to reveal the submarine's deployment serves as a clear message of deterrence to Iran and its proxies, who are believed to be preparing for a significant attack on Israel.
The anticipated Iranian attack is believed to be in retaliation for recent actions by Israel, including the killing of a top military commander for Iran's powerful proxy, Hezbollah, in Lebanon. Tensions escalated further when Israel was suspected of assassinating Hamas' political leader in Tehran.
In response to the escalating situation, Austin also ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to expedite its transit to the Middle East. The carrier strike group, which includes stealth F-35C fighter jets and several destroyers, will bolster the US military presence in the region.
Meanwhile, the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group has been operating in the waters of the Middle East for several weeks, further enhancing the US military's capabilities in the region. Additionally, the USS Wasp amphibious ready group, comprising thousands of Marines capable of special operations, is already active in the Mediterranean Sea.
The Pentagon's actions underscore the gravity of the situation in the Middle East and the US commitment to deterring aggression by Iran and its allies. The deployment of the submarine and carrier strike group represents a strategic move to ensure stability and security in the region amidst escalating tensions.
