The US has announced the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile battery to Israel. This decision comes in response to escalating tensions with Iran, particularly after what the Pentagon described as “unprecedented attacks.”
On April 13 and again on October 1, Iran launched significant missile strikes against Israel. In light of these events, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin authorized the deployment of the THAAD battery along with military personnel to bolster Israel’s air defense capabilities.
The Pentagon emphasized that this move reflects the US’s “ironclad commitment” to Israel’s defense. It aims to protect both Israel and American interests in the region from further Iranian aggression.
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Notably, this is not the first instance of THAAD deployment in the Middle East. Last year, a THAAD battery was sent to the region following attacks on October 7, and another was deployed to Israel in 2019 for training purposes.
The most recent Iranian attack on October 1 involved at least 200 ground-to-ground missiles, triggering sirens across Israel and prompting millions to seek shelter. Following the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it.”
In response to the rising tensions, US officials have been in discussions with Israel regarding potential actions. They have clarified that they do not support an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear sites.
Earlier this week, President Joe Biden spoke with Netanyahu for the first time since August. The conversation was described as “direct” and “productive.” However, specific details were not disclosed.
Following the call, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a warning of “lethal” retaliation against Iran’s attacks.