US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said Tuesday that contingency planning is underway in case the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups intensifies.
"The president has also tasked us with engaging in contingency planning for any and all escalation scenarios," Sullivan told reporters at the White House.
"And we are now deeply engaged in that planning. And we're consulting with allies and partners as well about all of the potential scenarios that might unfold in the days ahead," he added.
In his remarks, he recalled that under President Joe Biden's direction, the US military has enhanced its posture in the Middle East to strengthen deterrence, including the movement of a carrier strike group.
"Let me be clear: we did not move the carrier for Hamas. We moved the carrier to send a clear message of deterrence to other states or non-state actors that might seek to widen this war," said Sullivan.
He echoed the US stance, cautioning those who seek to take advantage of the conflict.
"Let me repeat...everyone, including enemies who are thinking of exploiting the current situation, hear it loud and clear. The United States has always and will always have Israel's back," he said.
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Sullivan: US is engaged in contingency planning for scenarios amid Israel-Palestine conflict