US sends fighter jets, warships to Middle East after Iran threatens to avenge Haniyeh’s killing

The United States will deploy a new contingent of military assets, including fighter jets and warships to the Middle East amid concerns of Iranian retaliation following Israel’s assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh.

In a statement released on Friday, the Pentagon announced that fighter squadrons, ballistic missile defence-capable cruisers and destroyers, along with a new aircraft carrier, will be stationed in the Middle East.

“Additionally, Secretary Austin has ordered the deployment of additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the US European Command and US Central Command regions,” the statement read.

"The Department is also taking steps to increase our readiness to deploy additional land-based ballistic missile defence," it continued.

"Austin ordered adjustments to US military posture designed to improve US force protection, to increase support for the defense of Israel, and to ensure the United States is prepared to respond to various contingencies,” it added.

These measures are aimed at strengthening the security of US forces and Israel, especially after Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, directed his military to enhance its defenses and develop a strategy for an attack on Israel.

As per International media reports, Iran is in talks with its regional allies, referred to as the “axis of resistance,” which includes Hamas, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and various Iraqi militias.

Experts are currently assessing the scope and severity of a potential Iranian response, and whether it could escalate into a full-scale war in the region.

Hamas chief was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony of newly-elected Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday.

Senior Hamas official, Khalil Al-Hayya stated that Haniyeh was killed by a missile on Wednesday, July 31. The witnesses reported the missile broke the window of the room before directly striking Haniyeh.