US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant recently engaged in discussions regarding Israel’s operations in Lebanon and the deployment of a US-supplied THAAD battery to Israel. The Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery deployment was highlighted as a demonstration of the United States’ unwavering support for Israel's defense.
During the conversation, Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of addressing the dire humanitarian situation in the region. He commended Israel for increasing humanitarian assistance to Gaza and encouraged further steps to alleviate the ongoing crisis.
These discussions follow a letter sent by Secretary Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Israeli counterparts, expressing concerns about the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The letter hinted at potential implications for US military aid to Israel if improvements were not made.
The THAAD defense system, known for its effectiveness in intercepting ballistic missiles, has a success rate of nearly 100% in testing. Capable of engaging and destroying various types of ballistic missiles within a range of 150 to 200 kilometers, THAAD provides a critical defense capability for Israel against potential threats.
With its ability to target missiles both inside and outside the atmosphere during their terminal phase, THAAD stands out as a versatile and powerful asset in missile defense. The deployment of this advanced system underscores the strong partnership between the US and Israel in enhancing regional security and defense capabilities.
