The United States Department of Defense has ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group to move closer to the Eastern Mediterranean in response to the attack by Hamas on Israel. The Ford carrier strike group is accompanied by the USS Normandy and four Arleigh-Burke-class guided missile destroyers and is part of the U.S. effort to bolster regional deterrence efforts and support Israel in its fight against Hamas. Secretary Austin said the move was done following detailed discussions with President Biden and the strike group is expected to arrive in the region in the coming days.