US prepares defense systems 'throughout' Middle East

The Pentagon stepped up its military readiness in the Middle East, ordering the activation of air defenses "throughout" the region and bringing additional US forces to an alert. Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin said that the moves were in response to "recent escalations by Iran and its proxy forces across the Middle East". Washington told an unspecified number of troops to prepare, as well as moving aircraft carrier groups to the Eastern Mediterranean, the statement said.