The Media Line: The United States To Deploy Troops, Anti-Missile System to Israel

The United States To Deploy Troops, Anti-Missile System to Israel

By The Media Line Staff

The United States announced on Sunday that it will deploy troops and an advanced anti-missile defense system to Israel in response to recent missile strikes by Iran. The decision follows Iran’s October 1 attack, during which over 180 missiles were fired at targets within Israel.

The deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system is notable, given Israel’s own advanced military and defense capabilities. President Joe Biden stated the move is intended “to defend Israel” as tensions escalate in the region.

“We’ve made broader adjustments to support Israel and defend US personnel,” said Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder.

The THAAD battery consists of six truck-mounted launchers, each equipped with eight interceptors, and is supported by a powerful radar system. The system requires around 100 personnel to operate.

While US troops typically operate the THAAD system in nearby Arab states such as Bahrain, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, this marks the first time it will be deployed on Israeli soil. Over the past year, the US has assisted Israel in countering previous Iranian aerial attacks from airfields, warships, and carriers stationed outside the country.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned the United States that sending troops to Israel “puts the lives of its troops at risk.”

“While we have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region, I say it clearly that we have no red lines in defending our people and interests,” Araghchi posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

US officials did not specify when the system would be fully deployed.