The Pentagon confirmed on Tuesday that the THAAD anti-missile system has arrived in Israel and will soon be fully operational. According to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the initial components and an advance team of U.S. military personnel necessary to operate the system have already reached Israel. Additional personnel and components will continue to arrive in the coming days, although specific timelines are not being disclosed for security reasons.
The deployment of the THAAD battery to Israel highlights the United States’ commitment to defending Israel against potential ballistic missile attacks from Iran. This move comes in response to previous missile attacks launched by Iran and its proxy terrorist groups against Israel earlier this year in April and October 1. While THAAD was previously deployed to Israel in 2019 for an exercise, this deployment signifies a more permanent presence to enhance Israel’s defense capabilities.
The Pentagon stated that this deployment is part of broader adjustments made by the U.S. military in recent months to support Israel’s defense and protect Americans in the region from potential threats posed by Iran and Iranian-aligned militias. Approximately 100 U.S. troops are being sent to Israel to operate the THAAD system, further strengthening the defense cooperation between the two countries.
President Biden, when asked about his approval of the deployment, emphasized the importance of defending Israel. The decision to deploy the THAAD system reflects the ongoing efforts to ensure the security and safety of both Israel and American personnel in the region.
The THAAD missile defense system has been tested in various locations, including Kodak, Alaska, and Guam. Its deployment to Israel underscores the significance of countering potential missile threats and enhancing the defense capabilities of the region. With the arrival of the THAAD system and the dedicated U.S. military personnel, Israel’s defense posture is set to receive a significant boost in the face of evolving security challenges.
In conclusion, the deployment of the THAAD anti-missile system to Israel represents a strategic move to enhance regional security and safeguard against potential threats posed by Iran. The ongoing commitment of the United States to defend Israel underscores the strong partnership between the two countries in addressing shared security concerns. The arrival of the THAAD system marks a significant step forward in strengthening Israel’s defense capabilities and ensuring the safety of both Israeli and American personnel in the region.
