The US is deploying a second aircraft carrier strike group to the eastern Mediterranean in order to deter hostile actions against Israel, according to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. The USS Eisenhower and its affiliated warships will join another carrier group already present in the region following Hamas’ attack on Israel and the country’s subsequent response. Austin emphasized that this deployment demonstrates the US’ unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and determination to prevent any escalation of the conflict. The recent violence, which began with a Hamas raid, has claimed the lives of over 1,300 people in both Israel and Gaza, with the majority being civilians. The United States has provided munitions to Israel and urged other nations to refrain from escalating the situation. In addition, President Joe Biden expressed his support for efforts to protect civilians in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and also condemned Hamas’ attack on Israel. Biden also spoke with Palestinian Authority leader Mahmud Abbas, affirming that Hamas does not represent the rights of the Palestinian people.