The U.S. is accelerating the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group and the USS Georgia guided-missile submarine to the Middle East amid escalating tensions due to recent assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. This move is in response to potential retaliatory strikes by Iran and Hezbollah and aims to bolster military presence and capabilities in the region to defend Israel. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reiterated America's commitment to Israel during a call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. International leaders from the U.K., France, and Germany have called for a ceasefire and restraint from Iran and its allies to prevent further escalation. The U.S. aims to support diplomatic efforts while preparing for various contingencies.