Biden's Military Strategy Shift in the Middle East
US President Joe Biden has announced a significant adjustment to the military posture of the United States in the Middle East, aimed at enhancing the protection of US forces and reinforcing America's commitment to Israel's security against Iranian threats. In a letter to Congress, Biden emphasized that this decision aligns with his responsibilities as commander-in-chief and is executed under his constitutional powers.
The adjustment includes the extension of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier group and the deployment of advanced military assets, such as fifth-generation F-35 fighters and destroyers capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. Biden highlighted that US military personnel in the region have been instrumental in defending Israel from Iranian attacks, particularly during incidents in April and October of this year. He also confirmed the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system in Israel, operated by American soldiers, to bolster Israel's defensive capabilities.
This military repositioning comes in the wake of escalating tensions, particularly following Iran's missile attacks on Israel in October, which were reportedly in retaliation for the assassination of key Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran would face consequences for its actions.
