**U.S. Bolsters Middle East Presence with Strategic Military Deployments**

The United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East as part of its continuous commitment to protect American citizens and forces in the region, support Israel's defense, and promote de-escalation through deterrence and diplomatic efforts. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder announced the deployment of additional ballistic missile defense destroyers, fighter squadrons, tanker aircraft, and several U.S. Air Force B-52 long-range strike bombers.

The announced deployments are set to begin arriving in the upcoming months, marking a significant augmentation just as the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group is preparing to depart from the region. This strategic movement underscores the U.S. military's flexible global defense posture and its capacity to rapidly deploy forces worldwide to address evolving national security threats.

In addition to these new deployments, the U.S. has recently decided to position the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system in Israel. This move complements the Department of Defense’s ongoing Amphibious Ready Group Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) presence in the Eastern Mediterranean, further reinforcing the U.S. commitment to its allies and stability in the region.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has emphasized that any aggression towards American personnel or interests, especially from Iran, its partners, or its proxies, will be met with decisive action to ensure their protection. The U.S. remains steadfast in its resolve to defend its people and maintain security in a highly volatile area.