The United States is ramping up military presence in the Middle East as tensions escalate following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and an Israeli strike that killed a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut. White House deputy national security adviser Jonathan Finer emphasized that these actions are defensive and aimed at de-escalation, deterrence, and the defense of Israel. Both Hamas and Iran have accused Israel of orchestrating Haniyeh's killing, prompting vows of retaliation, which heightens fears of a broader conflict. The Pentagon is set to deploy additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the region in response to these developments. Meanwhile, the U.S. has advised its citizens to leave Lebanon amid the rising tensions. Regional instability is further underscored by ongoing clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces since the Gaza war began last October.