NEW YORK: US military said it was increasing its air support capabilities in Middle East and putting troops on heightened readiness to deploy to region as it warned Iran against expanding ongoing conflict.

Announcement came two days after President Joe Biden directed Pentagon to adjust US force posture in Middle East amid intensifying concern that Israel's killing of leader of Hezbollah could prompt Tehran to retaliate.

"United States is determined to prevent Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies from exploiting situation or expanding conflict," Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder said in statement.

He cautioned that if Iran or groups Tehran backs "Use this moment to target American personnel or interests in region, United States will take every necessary measure to defend our people."

Pentagon statement offered few clues as to size or scope of new air deployment, saying only that "We will further reinforce our defensive air-support capabilities in coming days."

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that United States is watching to see what Hezbollah does to try to fill its leadership vacuum, "And is continuing to talk to Israelis about what right next steps are."

US State Department has yet to order an evacuation from Lebanon. But ask week, US officials told Reuters Pentagon was sending few dozen additional troops to Cyprus to help military prepare for scenarios including an evacuation of Americans from Lebanon.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 30 2024

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