US Naval Presence Intensifies in Eastern Mediterranean Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

The USS Mount Whitney, the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship, is heading to the Eastern Mediterranean Sea to support U.S. operations in the region amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas. The ship will join other U.S. assets already dispatched to the area, including two aircraft carrier strike groups and an amphibious assault ship. The Mount Whitney serves as a command ship with advanced command, control, communications, and intelligence capabilities. Its specific role upon arrival has not been disclosed.