The United States announced on Sunday that it will deploy a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to Israel, along with U.S. troops to operate the system, as they aims to bolster Israel’s air defenses in light of recent Iranian missile attacks.
U.S. Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that the deployment underscores America’s “ironclad commitment” to Israel’s defense and aims to protect U.S. citizens in the region from potential Iranian ballistic missile threats.
President Joe Biden directed Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to authorize the deployment, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures following Iran’s missile barrage earlier this month.
The THAAD system, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is designed to intercept both short- and medium-range ballistic missiles, providing a critical layer of defense for Israel’s integrated air defense system.
This announcement follows a significant escalation in hostilities, particularly after Iran launched approximately 180 ballistic missiles at Israel on October 1, marking its largest direct attack on the country to date. This missile strike was reportedly in retaliation for Israeli operations against Iranian-backed groups, including the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
While most missiles were intercepted by Israeli air defenses, some managed to strike central and southern Israel, causing injuries and property damage.
In response to the U.S. military’s involvement, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that the presence of U.S. troops in Israel could endanger American personnel. He stated, “While we have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region, I say it clearly that we have no red lines in defending our people and interests.”