The United States announced on Friday its plans to deploy B-52 bombers, fighter jets, refueling aircraft, and Navy destroyers to the Middle East as part of a strategic realignment of military resources, coinciding with the impending departure of the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group from the region.

According to a Pentagon statement, these deployments are expected to occur over the coming months and highlight the adaptability of U.S. military operations globally.

“Should Iran, its allies, or its proxies take this opportunity to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take all necessary actions to protect our people,” stated Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder.

Over the past year, the U.S. has maintained as many as two aircraft carriers in the Middle East amid escalating tensions following the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023.

The withdrawal of the Lincoln will result in a temporary gap in aircraft carrier presence until another is deployed to the region. This latest adjustment in U.S. military forces comes in the wake of direct confrontations in October between Israel and Iran. Israel is currently engaged in conflict with Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and has conducted strikes in Yemen in response to attacks from Iran-aligned Houthi fighters.

The United States has committed to supporting Israel against potential attacks and ensuring the safety of U.S. forces in the Middle East, who have faced assaults from Iran-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and off the coast of Yemen.