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US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has ordered the deployment of a guided missile submarine and expedited the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East.

What the Pentagon said: In a press release following a call with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, the Pentagon said that “Secretary Austin has ordered the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group, equipped with F-35C fighters, to accelerate its transit to the Central Command area of responsibility, adding to the capabilities already provided by the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group.” The Pentagon added, “Additionally, the Secretary has ordered the USS Georgia (SSGN 729) guided missile submarine to the Central Command region.”

An additional piece of info: According to some Israeli news outlets citing individuals close to the Defense minister, Gallant told Secretary Austin they had seen evidence that Iran is making military preparations that “suggest” Iran is preparing to attack Israel.

Israeli intelligence: Iran is preparing to attack Israel: Axios reporter Barak Ravid, citing two sources within the Israeli intelligence community, believes “that Iran is poised to attack Israel directly in retaliation for the assassination of Hamas’ political leader in Tehran and is likely to do it within days.” The claim from Ravid’s sources is a notable shift from previous days, where Israeli officials were unsure if Iran was actually going to move forward with a response.

Rising tensions: The announcement follows increased tensions in the Middle East following the targeted assassinations of key figures within Hezbollah and Hamas. These assassinations have sparked fears of a broader regional conflict, as Iran has vowed to retaliate against Israel, which it holds responsible for the attacks.