A Department of Defense spokesman explained Washington’s current goals in the Middle East. Since Israel launched a massive military operation in Gaza, the US has deployed thousands of troops and a large host of naval ships to the region.

According to a press release outlining Gen. Pat Ryder’s statement, the Pentagon’s four priorities for the Middle East currently are:

1. “Protection of US forces and citizens in the region.”

2. “Flow of critical security assistance to Israel as it defends against further Hamas terrorist attacks.”

3. “Coordination with the Israelis to help secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, to include American citizens.”

4. “Strengthening of force posture across the region to deter any state or nonstate actors from escalating the crisis beyond Gaza.”