In a significant development, the USS Ford, along with its strike group, is set to remain deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The decision comes as the carrier and its accompanying warships have been actively engaged in intercepting incoming ballistic missiles and attack drones fired from Yemen by Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

The USS Ford, a state-of-the-art aircraft carrier with a crew of approximately 5,000 sailors, embarked on its first full-length deployment in May this year. Joining the Ford on its deployment are the destroyers Carney, Ramage, McFaul, and Thomas Hudner. These vessels form part of a formidable strike group capable of providing crucial support to amphibious landing craft, rotary aircraft, and even the Marine Corps' F-35B vertical takeoff fighter aircraft.

Following the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, the Ford was strategically positioned in the Eastern Mediterranean, ensuring it remains within striking distance of the conflict zone. While the carrier held its position, its accompanying warships ventured into the Red Sea, actively intercepting incoming ballistic missiles and attack drones fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. These proactive measures highlight the United States' concerns regarding the widening of the conflict and its commitment to ensuring regional stability.

The Pentagon, in a noteworthy move, extended the Ford's deployment three times in recent months, underscoring the carrier's vital role in maintaining a significant American presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. Alongside the USS Ford, the USS Eisenhower (Ike) has also been part of a two-carrier presence, effectively bracketing the Israel-Hamas conflict. This demonstration of military strength serves to emphasize the United States' commitment to safeguarding its interests and supporting its regional allies.

In recent weeks, destroyers associated with the Eisenhower carrier strike group, namely Gravely, Laboon, and Mason, have been actively engaged in countering threats. These destroyers successfully neutralized numerous drones and missiles, while also providing assistance to commercial vessels that fell under attack from Houthi rebels.

On December 26, the USS Laboon had an impressive feat, shooting down 12 one-way attack drones, three anti-ship ballistic missiles, and two land attack cruise missiles in the Red Sea. Similarly, on December 16, the USS Carney successfully intercepted 14 attack drones in the same region. The USS Eisenhower and destroyer Gravely made headlines on Sunday as they retaliated against Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, shooting down three small boats after an attack on helicopters and a merchant vessel in the Red Sea.

Concerns surrounding Iran's involvement in these violent acts prompted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to announce the creation of a multinational task force on December 18. This coalition aims to protect civilian ships navigating through the strategically significant Red Sea, thus safeguarding vital economic interests.

As tensions escalate in the Eastern Mediterranean due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the deployment of the USS Ford and its strike group in the region sends a strong message of deterrence. The presence of these powerful naval assets not only bolsters the security of American forces and their allies but also reaffirms the United States' commitment to stability in the region. The continuation of this deployment underscores the gravity of the situation and the significant role the USS Ford plays in the current geopolitical landscape.