US activates air defense across West Asia due to escalations by Iran and its proxies

In an effort to increase military preparedness, the Pentagon has ordered the activation of air defense systems “throughout” the West Asia region and notifies other US forces that they might be deployed shortly. According to a statement from US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, the actions are a reaction to “recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces across the West Asia.” He claims that “these steps will increase force protection for US forces in the region, bolster regional deterrence efforts, and aid in Israel’s defense.” Austin did not say how many more US soldiers will be sent to the area. “I will continue to assess our force posture requirements in the region and consider deploying additional capabilities as necessary,” he says, adding that the moves follow “detailed discussions” with US President Joe Biden. The announcement also comes after Austin again spoke with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, amid the ongoing war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. “The secretary thanked Minister Gallant for Israel’s role in facilitating the October 21 humanitarian convoy into Gaza and reiterated the importance of protecting civilians,” said a statement from the Pentagon. “The two leaders also discussed the continued provision of security assistance and the US commitment to deter any state or non-state actor seeking to escalate this war.” (with inputs from agencies)