The U.S. will send an advanced anti-missile system, along with troops to operate it, to Israel to enhance its air defenses following Iran’s attacks on April 13 and October 1, according to the Pentagon.
This deployment includes the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, which has been previously used in the region, including a deployment in Israel for an exercise in 2019.
Approximately 100 U.S. troops are being sent to Israel for this purpose, a notable move amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, especially with the potential for an Israeli attack on Iran.
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The THAAD system is designed for anti-ballistic missile defense and would strengthen Israel’s capabilities against possible Iranian retaliation.
U.S. officials have been in consultation with Israel regarding its response to Iran’s recent attacks, emphasizing that any Israeli retaliation should be “proportional.”
Since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Middle East, enhancing air defenses and deploying additional warships and aircraft carriers to the region, along with troops to Cyprus for evacuation planning.