USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Ordered to Stay in Mediterranean Near Israel

The Pentagon has ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and another warship to remain in the Mediterranean Sea near Israel for several more weeks, maintaining a two-carrier presence as Israel's war with Hamas continues. This is the third time the Ford's deployment has been extended, reflecting concerns about the region's volatility. The decision comes as Iranian-backed militants in Iraq and Syria have been conducting regular attacks on U.S. military installations, and U.S. warships in the Red Sea have intercepted missiles fired towards Israel. There are currently 19 U.S. warships in the region, with the Ford's strike group expected to stay for several more weeks.