The U.S. Defense Department is contemplating sending a second aircraft carrier, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, to the eastern Mediterranean near Israel, intensifying the U.S. military presence amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. While the Eisenhower was originally scheduled to operate near Europe, it may now be deployed alongside the USS Gerald R. Ford, which was recently sent to the waters near Israel after sudden attacks on the southern part of the country.
Key Points:
- The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, along with its associated fleet and fighter jets, may be directed to the waters off Israel’s coast, having originally been set to operate near Europe.
- If deployed, the Eisenhower is expected to reach the eastern Mediterranean by the end of October, joining the USS Gerald R. Ford, which was recently positioned there following surprise attacks on Israel.
- Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is assessing the deployment plans of both ships in light of national security priorities.
- The unusual decision to deploy two aircraft carriers in the same region sends a strong message of U.S. military support for Israel.
- A similar double carrier deployment occurred in March 2020, in the Middle East due to tensions with Iran, but such strategies have previously strained Navy resources.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2023/10/10/u-s-may-send-second-aircraft-carrier-toward-israel-00120793
