About 7,000 Guardsmen and 1,000 active duty troops are already deployed as part of relief efforts in the Southeast.

The 1,000-soldier task force includes a forward support company with support structures like fuel, water and mechanics.

The attack comes as the one-year anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip approaches.

Nearly 6,000 National Guard members have deployed to the Southeast, rescuing flood victims, clearing roads and providing vital supplies.

Guard, Reserve and active-duty units with a Pacific focus are taking priority, officials said.