2,000 Marines and Sailors En Route to Israel to Prevent Escalation of Conflict

The US is sending a rapid response force of 2,000 Marines and sailors to the waters off the coast of Israel to prevent the conflict between Israel and Hamas from escalating. The US is increasing its presence in the Middle East, including deploying more aircraft carriers and fighter jets, but is cautious about discussing potential deployments to Israel to avoid being perceived as getting involved in a war. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit has departed from Kuwait and is heading towards Israel. Retired Maj. Gen. James “Spider” Marks suggests that if troops are deployed in a support role, it would likely involve material management, munitions unit, and liaison capabilities.