US Officials Indicate Readiness for Defensive Action Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

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In a public statement on Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed concern over the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, particularly with regard to Iran’s potential involvement via its proxies. They emphasized the U.S. government’s readiness to act if American military or diplomatic personnel are targeted in the ongoing hostilities.

Blinken clarified that the U.S. administration does not seek escalation and would prefer that its forces and personnel are not subjected to attacks. However, he stated unequivocally that the U.S. is prepared to respond defensively should such an unfortunate circumstance arise.

Austin, reiterating Blinken’s sentiments, expressed concern about the heightened risk of attacks on American troops and personnel in the region. He affirmed the U.S.’s right to self-defense and said that appropriate action would be taken without hesitation if necessary.

The officials’ statements come at a crucial time, as Israel’s military response to a fatal attack by Hamas on October 7 enters its third week. Israeli airstrikes have targeted multiple locations in Gaza, Syria, and the West Bank, leading to increased tensions that threaten to involve more of the Middle East.

Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has exchanged fire with Israeli forces almost daily since the conflict began. In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, clashes have erupted between Israeli forces and militants, resulting in recent airstrikes by Israel.

The U.S. has further escalated its precautionary measures by advising non-essential staff at its embassy in Iraq to evacuate the country, signaling heightened tensions in the region.

During a recent visit to the Middle East, Blinken spoke about the likelihood of an escalation, specifically mentioning the potential involvement of Iranian proxies against American forces and personnel. He said that the U.S. is taking steps to defend its people decisively if needed.

Appearing on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Blinken added that additional military resources, including two aircraft carrier battle groups, have been deployed to the region as a deterrent, rather than a provocation.

President Joe Biden has been succinct in his warning to any entity contemplating taking advantage of the situation, simply stating, “Don’t.”

In other developments, humanitarian aid has started flowing into Gaza after Egypt opened a key border crossing. However, Cindy McCain, the executive director of the U.N. World Food Program, indicated that the situation remains dire and more aid is needed.

President Biden, who was briefed by his national security team, also held separate discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Pope Francis regarding the conflict. He additionally convened a call with the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom to deliberate on the situation.

Due to increasing tensions, the State Department has ordered non-essential diplomats and their families stationed in Iraq to leave, citing an unsustainable security situation for normal operations.

Austin and McCain were interviewed on ABC’s “This Week,” discussing various aspects of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

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