President Joe Biden reaffirmed the United States' commitment to defending Israel amidst reports of Iran planning to launch drones towards the country. Speaking from the White House, Biden stated, 'We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.'
The US has positioned forces in Iraq and Syria that could potentially intercept drones en route to Israel, depending on the launch location. Additionally, US Navy forces in the Red Sea have successfully intercepted long-range missiles aimed at Israel in the past.
There are thousands of US troops deployed throughout the Middle East, with the Defense Department recently moving additional assets to the region. During the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the US bolstered its presence in the Middle East to deter further escalation.
Furthermore, approximately 1,000 US troops are en route to establish a floating pier to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, expected to be operational by late April or early May. The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower carrier strike group, comprising 6,000 sailors and various vessels, remains stationed in the region.
In response to ongoing attacks, the US has been actively countering missile and drone strikes by Iran-backed groups in Yemen, Iraq, and Syria. Tragically, three US soldiers lost their lives in January during a drone attack on a small outpost in Jordan.
Gen. Erik Kurilla, the commander of CENTCOM overseeing US forces in the Middle East, recently held meetings with Israeli counterparts in Israel. The visit underscores the strong partnership between the two countries in addressing regional security challenges.
