(Dan Tri) – The US aircraft carrier battle group USS Gerald R. Ford has arrived in the eastern Mediterranean, while the first US military aircraft also carried ammunition to Israel.
F-18 fighter jet on the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (Photo: Getty).
General Michael `Erik` Kurilla of the US Central Command announced on October 10 that the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group with 8 squadrons of attack and support aircraft and 4 missile destroyers
Previously, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on October 8 that he had ordered the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group to the eastern Mediterranean to be ready to support Israel after the force’s attack.
USS Gerald R. Ford, the US Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, with about 5,000 sailors and many fighter aircraft will be escorted by cruisers and destroyers in a demonstration operation.
In addition, Mr. Austin said the US has also taken steps to strengthen the US Air Force’s F-35, F-15, F-16 and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.
According to Secretary Austin, in addition to deploying warships, US President Joe Biden’s administration `also quickly provided the Israel Defense Forces with additional equipment and resources, including ammunition.`
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed on October 10 that the first US military aircraft carrying `advanced ammunition` landed at Nevatim air base in Israel.
Israel has praised America’s support amid the escalating conflict.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said that Gaza will never return to the way it was before, and announced that the country’s army is moving to a `full-scale attack` against Hamas militants.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Washington is discussing establishing a safe corridor for civilians trapped in the Gaza Strip.
US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller announced that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will come to Israel on October 11 to meet senior leaders.
`This will be a message of solidarity and support,` Miller said, adding that Secretary of State Blinken will make recommendations to Israel `about what they need and how we can best support them.`
The Wall Street Journal quoted US defense officials as reporting that Washington is considering deploying a second aircraft carrier to waters near Israel.
WSJ said the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and supply ships were scheduled to arrive in the Middle East several months ago and the fleet is expected to arrive in the area in about two weeks.
President Joe Biden and other senior officials in the US administration had a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on October 10.
`We connected with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss coordinating support for Israel, deterring attacking forces, and protecting innocent people,` Mr. Biden said.
