Continuous Communication Between US and Israeli Defense Ministers; US Aircraft Carrier Enters the Region

On Sunday, Lloyd Austin, the US Secretary of Defense, spoke by phone with Benny Gantz, the Israeli Defense Minister. Austin expressed condolences to the people of Israel due to the terrorist attack by Hamas and supported Israel's operations to restore security and safety. The US Defense Secretary emphasized the unwavering support of the United States for Israel's right to self-defense and announced that the US is moving the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier and five guided-missile destroyers to the Eastern Mediterranean. Associated Press previously reported that the USS Gerald Ford, with 5,000 sailors and its deck of fighter jets, along with cruisers and destroyers, is prepared to respond to any threats, including preventing additional weapons from reaching Hamas. This deployment comes as Hamas's rocket attacks on Israel continue, resulting in at least 600 deaths in Israel and over 300 in Gaza. The Ford aircraft carrier was previously in the Mediterranean Sea and conducted a naval exercise with Italy last week. This aircraft carrier is the newest and most advanced in the US fleet. Austin added that these steps are taken to strengthen the US military position in the region and enhance regional deterrence efforts, with the US sending additional equipment and resources, including munitions, to Israel in the coming days. Gantz also expressed gratitude for US support, stating that Israel is ready to use all necessary tools for its defense. The two ministers agreed to remain in close contact in the coming days and weeks. US President Joe Biden also spoke again with Netanyahu on Sunday, reaffirming his full support for the government and people of Israel against the unprecedented and horrific attacks by Hamas. He expressed sorrow over the hostage-taking of families, the elderly, and young children by Hamas, stating that there is no justification for terrorism. The US President said, 'The United States is engaged in intensive diplomatic efforts to support Israel, and more assistance for Israeli defense forces is on the way.' The leaders of the two countries also discussed ongoing efforts to ensure that none of Israel's enemies benefit from the current situation. The widespread support of US officials for Israel and the condemnation of the actions of the 'terrorist' group Hamas are noted. The Islamic Republic fundamentally will not accept the nature of Israel as Palestine is considered an integral part of its ideology. European officials' support for Israel and the condemnation of celebrations by some of their citizens during the Hamas terrorist attacks were also highlighted. The US Secretary of State stated that Hamas's actions worsen the situation for Palestinians. A live blog reported the G7 foreign ministers' welcome of a ceasefire; all hostages should be released unconditionally. A Wall Street Journal exclusive report indicated that Hamas's surprise attack was carried out with the green light from the Islamic Republic. Biden told Netanyahu that more assistance for the Israeli army is on the way.