WASHINGTON - The US military will deploy additional fighter jets and Navy warships to the Middle East, the Pentagon said on Friday (Aug 2), as Washington seeks to bolster defences following threats from Iran and its allies Hamas and Hezbollah.

The US is bracing for Iran to make good on its vow to respond to the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh two days ago in Tehran - one in a series of killings of senior figures in the Palestinian militant group as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza rages.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had approved sending additional Navy cruisers and destroyers-- which can shoot down ballistic missiles-- to the Middle East and Europe.

It is also sending an additional squadron of fighter jets to the Middle East.

"Austin has ordered adjustments to US military posture designed to improve US force protection, to increase support for the defence of Israel, and to ensure the United States is prepared to respond to various contingencies," the Pentagon said in a statement.

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