US closely monitoring volatile situation in the Middle East
Continues deploying military assets to the region
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder held a press briefing in Washington, DC, on August 12, 2024, to address the heightened military posture and recent developments in the Middle East.
The briefing came as the United States intensifies its efforts to de-escalate regional tensions and support its allies.
Maj. Gen. Ryder reiterated that the US Department of Defence remains deeply engaged in monitoring the volatile situation in the Middle East. He emphasised that the primary focus is on de-escalating tensions and securing a ceasefire to facilitate the safe return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and end the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Maj. Gen. Ryder noted that US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin recently spoke with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to reaffirm the US commitment to Israel’s defence in response to rising tensions.
In this regard, Austin has accelerated the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, including its F-35C fighters, to the Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. This move complements the existing presence of the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. The USS Georgia guided missile submarine has also been ordered to the Middle East region.
Strategic adjustments
Maj. Gen. Ryder said these strategic adjustments aim to bolster US force protection, enhance support for Israel, and ensure preparedness for potential contingencies.
When asked about the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group’s arrival, Ryder confirmed that the aircraft carrier was en route but refrained from providing a specific timeline.
Maj. Gen. Ryder stated that in a separate development, on August 9, US and coalition forces at Rumalyn Landing Zone in Syria were targeted by a one-way attack with an uncrewed aerial system. The drone strike caused damage to facilities at the base. Although the extent of the damage is still being assessed, CENTCOM reports that no US service members sustained severe injuries. Several personnel were treated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation, with some undergoing further examination for traumatic brain injuries.
Responding to questions, Maj. Gen. Ryder clarified that the Pentagon has no information confirming recent reports from Houthi or Iranian state media about US and UK drones striking Houthi positions. He also declined to speculate on potential Iranian or proxy attacks, focusing instead on the ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent a broader conflict.
Regarding the deployment of the USS Georgia and the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, Ryder maintained that specifics about naval operations and timelines would not be disclosed. He confirmed that adding these assets is intended to strengthen US capabilities in the Middle East region, not necessarily to indicate imminent military action.
Gaza civilians
On the topic of civilian casualties in Gaza, Maj. Gen. Ryder acknowledged ongoing concerns and emphasised minimising harm to civilians. He added that the Pentagon continues to advocate for measures that address and mitigate civilian casualties in conflict zones.
Maj. Gen. Ryder stated that the US currently maintains approximately 30,000 troops within the CENTCOM area of responsibility. This number is subject to change as assets are deployed and transitioned within the region. He added that the overarching goal remains to support de-escalation efforts, protect US forces, and defend allies amid the ongoing regional instability.
CENTCOM’s area of responsibility covers 21 nations in the Middle East, Central and South Asia, and the strategic waterways surrounding them.
Regarding the air defence capabilities in the Middle East, particularly in light of recent drone attacks, Ryder assured that significant air defence assets are in place. He declined to discuss specifics about their locations or employment but emphasised ongoing efforts to protect US forces.
Ukraine-Russia conflict
Addressing concerns about Ukraine’s use of US weapons, Maj. Gen. Ryder confirmed that the Pentagon believes Ukraine is operating within the policy boundaries set for the use of these weapons. He deferred questions about Ukraine’s specific goals to Ukrainian officials but reiterated that US policies have not changed.
On the topic of North Korea’s planned military delegation visit to Moscow, Maj. Gen. Ryder noted that while he could not comment on the specifics of the meeting, the ongoing relationship between Russia and North Korea remains a concern, especially regarding support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Maj. Gen. Ryder confirmed that the number of US troops in Iraq and Syria, as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, remains constant, with approximately 900 troops in Syria.
The briefing concluded with Maj. Gen. Ryder confirmed ongoing discussions between the US and Ukraine regarding military operations while maintaining vigilance over North Korea’s and Russia’s evolving relationship.
Featured image: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered additional US military assets to the Middle East region. Credit: US Department of Defence
