US Defense secretary sends submarine to Middle East, speeds up strike group arrival

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has ordered the deployment of the USS Georgia submarine to the Middle East and expedited the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. This action comes as tensions rise over an expected Iranian attack on Israel.

Austin's orders follow recent violence, including the killing of key Iranian military figures by Israel, which has increased fears of retaliation. The USS Georgia was previously training in the Mediterranean, operating under heightened secrecy.

The Lincoln strike group, consisting of advanced stealth jets and destroyers, is also moving towards the region to bolster US military presence, alongside other naval forces already deployed.