The Pentagon has confirmed that the first components of a U.S. missile defense system have arrived in the Middle East with the aim of protecting Israel from potential attacks by Iran. The system, known as the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery, is set to be fully operational in the near future.
An advance team of U.S. military personnel, along with initial THAAD components, has already landed in Israel. Additional personnel and equipment will continue to arrive in the coming days, although specific timelines are being kept confidential for operational security reasons.
Pentagon Press Secretary emphasized that the deployment of the THAAD battery underscores the United States' commitment to Israel's defense and the protection of Americans in the region from ballistic missile threats posed by Iran.
This move follows recent missile attacks by Iran and its proxy groups on Israel in April and October this year. While THAAD was previously deployed to Israel in 2019 for an exercise, this deployment marks a more permanent measure to enhance defense capabilities.
The Pentagon stated that the deployment of THAAD is part of broader adjustments made by the U.S. military to support Israel's defense and safeguard against potential attacks by Iran and its affiliated militias.
Approximately 100 U.S. troops are being sent to Israel to operate the THAAD system, demonstrating a tangible commitment to bolstering Israel's security.
President Biden, when asked about his approval of the deployment, cited the primary objective as being to defend Israel, reaffirming the strong partnership between the two nations in matters of security and defense.
