US Sends Air Defense System and Troops to Israel Amid Iranian Threats

The United States announced on Sunday, October 12, that it will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system, along with American troops, to Israel. 

The move is intended to bolster Israel’s defenses against potential Iranian missile attacks. The decision was made by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, under the direction of President Joe Biden, as part of the US's commitment to Israel's security.

According to Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder, the deployment of the THAAD system will be essential in strengthening Israel’s air defenses, which have faced missile threats from Iran on several occasions. 

In April and October 2023, Iran launched missile strikes against Israel, escalating tensions in the region.

"This action underscores the United States' commitment to the defense of Israel and to protecting Americans in Israel from any ballistic missile attacks by Iran," said Ryder. 

The move is not only aimed at securing Israel but also at safeguarding US military personnel stationed in the region.

This announcement comes at a time of heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. The recent escalation in hostilities has raised fears of a broader conflict, potentially drawing the US into direct involvement. 

Israel is reportedly preparing a military response to the Iranian missile attack that occurred on October 1, when approximately 180 missiles were fired at Israel.

Iran quickly responded to the US announcement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took to the platform X (formerly Twitter) to warn the US against sending military forces to the region, cautioning Washington to keep its troops out of Israel. 

This warning has further fueled uncertainty in the already volatile situation.
It remains unclear where the THAAD system will be sourced from. 

The US had previously sent a THAAD battery to the Middle East at the end of 2023, along with additional Patriot battalions, to strengthen the protection of US forces in the region following the October 7, 2023, Hamas militant attack on Israel. 

In 2019, the US also deployed a THAAD system to Israel temporarily for training purposes, highlighting the long-standing cooperation between the two nations in defense matters.

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