Israel Delays Gaza Invasion at U.S. Request

Israel has agreed to delay its planned invasion of Gaza at the request of the United States, in order to allow for the deployment of missile defense systems to protect U.S. troops in the region. The U.S. is rushing to deploy air defense systems to multiple countries in the Middle East, including those where U.S. troops are stationed. The delay also takes into account efforts to provide humanitarian aid in Gaza and diplomatic negotiations to free hostages held by Hamas militants. The U.S. believes that its forces will be targeted by militant groups once Israel launches its ground invasion.