Washington: The US has dispatched two warships loaded with missiles and a Marine team to beef up the security at its missions in Libya after American ambassador was killed in a violent attack on its Consulate in Benghazi.
Senior Obama Administration officials said the 50-member Marine unit was being flown from their base in Europe. This is in addition to two US warships – USS Laboon and USS McFaul – which are now being moved to the coast of Libya.
The warships are equipped with Tomahawk missiles that could be used if the Obama Administration orders a strike against those responsible for the attack on US mission. The crews of each warship equal approximately 300 people.
The move came hours after President Barack Obama said he has directed his administration to provide all necessary resources to support the security of US personnel in Libya, and to increase security at diplomatic posts around the globe. Pentagon spokesman George Little declined to comment on specific ship movements but said precautionary steps are being taken by the US military.
According to the official, the Department of Defense is working closely with the White House and State Department to provide all necessary resources to support the security of US personnel in Libya.
Meanwhile, Obama telephoned his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai to discuss and ensure that the violent incidents in Libya and Egypt do not have any negative impact on the safety and security of American soldiers deployed in Afghanistan.
“Karzai expressed condolences for the tragic loss of American life and the Presidents discussed the importance of working together to help ensure that the circumstances that led to the violence in Libya and Egypt do not pose a threat to US forces or Afghans,” the White House said.
The White House said Obama called Karzai as part of their regular consultations as transition continues in Afghanistan. The two Presidents took the opportunity to discuss the tragic events that took place in Benghazi, including the death of US Embassy personnel.
“Obama also reaffirmed his commitment to transferring detainees to Afghan authority in a manner that respects Afghan sovereignty and protects US and Afghan forces.
The two Presidents agreed to speak again soon on additional issues of mutual interest,”” the White House said. (PTI)