U.S. presence deterred Hezbollah from joining all-out war on Israel

The United States deployed two carrier strike groups, each consisting of an aircraft carrier, its planes, and several escort warships, which appeared to have deterred Hezbollah from attacking Israel in a major war, as per a report.

On the other hand, the US and Israeli Intelligence agencies are working to determine whether Israel’s expected ground offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip could prompt Hezbollah to launch a large-scale military campaign against Israel from Lebanon.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has vetoed proposals from his government of a pre-emptive strike against Hezbollah, according to American officials and others briefed on the discussions.

Earlier today, the US Defence Department reiterated its full support to Israel at the time of war and said that the US Secretary of Defence is in continuous touch with the Israeli authorities and leaders.

The US Department of Defence (DOD) said in a statement, “Since meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and members of the Israeli War Cabinet in Tel Aviv on Friday, Austin has remained fully engaged with the country’s leaders as the US works ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself from further attacks.”

In the statement, Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh shared, “Since leaving Israel, he has held calls with MOD Gallant … on a near daily basis and will likely have another call today”. He added, “We are working to meet Israel’s needs, which include air defence, precision-guided munitions, artillery and medical supplies.” In addition to quickly fielding U.S. aid to Israel, the U.S. has bolstered its presence in the region to deter further aggression.

Will operate more flights from Israel if needed: Minister

NEW DELHI: Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan on Tuesday said that if required, more flights will be operated on the basis of the evolving situation, noting that five flights have already arrived in the last few days. “As of now, 5 flights have come and if required, we will operate more flights on the basis of the situation that emerges,” Muraleedharan said. “During the last almost 4-5 days, we have flown aircraft from Israel to India,” he added.