The Pentagon announced on Sunday that it will deploy a high-altitude anti-missile system and its U.S. military crew to Israel, aiming to bolster the ally’s defenses against potential Iranian missile threats.
In a statement, Pentagon press secretary Pat Ryder said that, at the direction of U.S. President Joe Biden, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin “authorized the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and associated crew of U.S. military personnel to Israel. This move is intended to enhance Israel’s air defenses following Iran’s unprecedented attacks against Israel on April 13 and again on October 1.”
The THAAD system is designed to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight. Its deployment comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with concerns over Iran’s missile capabilities impacting regional stability.
Israel has long sought advanced missile defense systems to counter threats from neighboring regions. The addition of the THAAD system is expected to enhance the country’s multi-tiered missile defense architecture, which includes the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems.
The move underscores the strategic partnership between the United States and Israel. Analysts suggest that this deployment serves as both a deterrent to potential aggressors and a signal of the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining stability in the Middle East.
“Strengthening Israel’s defense capabilities is crucial not just for its national security but also for broader regional peace initiatives,” commented Dr. Sarah Levinson, a Middle East policy analyst.
The exact timeline for the deployment has not been disclosed, but officials indicate that preparations are underway to ensure a swift and efficient implementation of the system.
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Pentagon says will send THAAD missile defense system to Israel
cgtn.com
