US to Deploy Advanced Anti-Missile System and Troops to Israel Amid Heightened Tensions with Iran

The Pentagon announced on Sunday that the United States will send an advanced anti-missile system, along with approximately 100 troops to operate it, to Israel. This decision comes in response to recent attacks from Iran, notably on April 13 and October 1, aimed at bolstering Israel’s air defenses during a period of escalating hostilities in the region.

The system being deployed is the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery, which is specifically designed for anti-ballistic missile defense. Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, noted that this is not the first instance of the THAAD system being deployed to the Middle East. It was previously stationed in Israel for an exercise in 2019. However, the current deployment of US troops marks a significant step, especially amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran and fears of a potential Israeli strike on Iranian targets.

According to a US defense official, around 100 troops will be dispatched to operate the THAAD battery. While it is uncommon for US forces to be stationed inside Israel, this number aligns with what is typically required to manage the advanced anti-missile system. The THAAD system is expected to enhance Israel’s defense capabilities, particularly against potential retaliatory strikes from Iran following any Israeli military actions.

In the wake of Iran’s recent attacks, the US has been in consultation with Israel regarding its response strategies. US officials have emphasized that they do not wish for Israel to target Iranian nuclear facilities or oil infrastructure. During a recent phone call, US President Joe Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ensure that any retaliation remains “proportional.”

Since the onset of heightened tensions following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, the US military has significantly increased its presence in the Middle East. The US has fortified air defenses across the region and deployed additional warships and aircraft carriers to the eastern Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, additional troops have been sent to Cyprus to assist with evacuation planning if necessary.

As the situation unfolds, the deployment of the THAAD system and US troops underscores the ongoing commitment of the United States to support Israel’s security amid rising threats from Iran and its proxies.