U.S. Withdraws Aircraft Carrier from Middle East Amid Tensions

The Pentagon has announced the departure of one of two U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups from the Middle East, aimed at deterring Iran from attacking Israel. The Theodore Roosevelt has left for the Asia-Pacific region. The decision follows increased tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

The Pentagon announced the departure of one of two U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups from the Middle East on Thursday. This move aims to deter Iran from executing a threatened attack against Israel. The Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group has headed to the Asia-Pacific region after replacing the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group.

Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder confirmed that the Theodore Roosevelt had departed for the Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had initially ordered the Roosevelt to stay in the Middle East after the arrival of the Abraham Lincoln carrier group, amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

Despite the carrier's departure, officials remain concerned about potential threats from Iran. Major General Ryder emphasized ongoing vigilance against Iranian threats, especially in response to the July killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which Iran has vowed to avenge. The Biden administration continues its efforts to de-escalate regional tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)