The U.S. military has stood with Israel since Hamas' attack into the country on Oct. 7, 2023, and suffered attacks on Middle Eastern positions as well.
The Navy destroyers Bulkeley and Cole put in work Tuesday, playing a role in stopping Iran's ballistic missile attack on Israel, according to the Pentagon.
As war between Israel and Hezbollah threatens to erupt, the Pentagon said additional U.S. forces "are there for the protection" of other American troops.
While Combined Joint Task Force — Operation Inherent Resolve will be mothballed, the U.S. military expects to continue its presence in Iraq, officials say.