Pentagon surging thousands of troops toward Israel amid Gaza war

Deployments disclosed by the Pentagon in recent days will surge thousands of U.S. troops toward Israel, projecting expansive military strength in the region as American diplomats race to prevent the war in Gaza from erupting into a broader conflict.

The moves include the deployment of two U.S. aircraft carriers and their associated escort ships, hauling some 15,000 personnel combined; the repositioning of an amphibious task force made up of about 4,000 Marines and sailors; and undisclosed increases to fighter squadrons already arrayed throughout the Middle East. Another 2,000 support troops have been put on alert and told they should be ready to go within days.