The US is strengthening its defense system in the Middle East, according to the Pentagon.
The Pentagon said, Saturday, that the US will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system and more air defense missile system battalions to the Middle East, after the latest escalations in the region.
The US supported its naval power to the Middle East in recent weeks, including two aircraft carriers, and about 2,000 Marines.
Washington is on heightened alert for activity by Iran-backed groups as regional tensions soar during the Israel-Hamas war.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement: "Following detailed discussions with President (Joe) Biden on recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces across the Middle East Region, today I directed a series of additional steps to further strengthen the Department of Defense posture in the region."
"These steps will bolster regional deterrence efforts, increase force protection for U.S. forces in the region, and assist in the defense of Israel," Austin added.
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