On Monday, U.S. servicemembers arrived in Israel to support the country’s defense as it faces a multi-front conflict with various regional actors. The Pentagon confirmed that more troops are expected to arrive soon as part of an ongoing U.S. military deployment to bolster Israel’s defenses. This comes as Israel deals with heightened threats, particularly from missile attacks linked to Iran.
The initial deployment includes approximately 100 U.S. troops tasked with operating a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system, which is designed to defend against aerial threats, including ballistic missiles. Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder emphasized that more U.S. personnel and THAAD components would arrive in the coming days. This deployment signals the United States’ commitment to Israel’s defense, as well as the protection of U.S. personnel in the region.
PREVIOUS REPORT: US Deploys THAAD Missile System, Troops To Israel Amid Rising Tensions With Iran
The U.S. previously deployed THAAD systems to Israel in 2019 and 2023, primarily for joint exercises, but the current situation is different, given the escalated hostilities. Israel has been engaged in active military conflict since Oct. 7, when Hamas launched a deadly attack, killing over 1,200 people. The war has since expanded, with rising tensions involving Hezbollah in Lebanon and concerns about Iranian involvement.
Despite calls from the Biden-Harris administration for de-escalation, the conflict shows no signs of abating. Several ceasefire discussions have been proposed, but no agreements have been reached. The situation is rapidly developing, with Israel now focusing its military efforts on both Hamas and Hezbollah as the conflict widens.
The Pentagon has refrained from giving specific timelines regarding the THAAD system’s operational readiness due to the sensitive nature of the security situation. The current U.S. military presence in Israel is a precautionary measure aimed at reinforcing defenses amidst ongoing regional instability.
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