"USS Ford Carrier Strike Group Bolsters Israel's Defense Amid Escalating Conflicts"
The Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group has been ordered to the eastern Mediterranean by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to support Israel in the wake of recent attacks by Hamas. While the move is seen as a "show of force," experts highlight the practical benefits it brings, including resupplying Israel, collecting intelligence, providing long-range protection, and deterring other players from escalating the conflict. The carrier strike group could offer ballistic missile defense against Iranian missiles, but not against attacks from Gaza or Lebanon. Additionally, the group could assist in resupplying Israel with precision-guided munitions and interceptors for the Iron Dome missile defense system. The move raises questions about the Pentagon's defense strategy and budgeting, as it extends support to both Ukraine and Israel simultaneously.