US Deploys THAAD Missile System to Israel
The United States is sending its advanced anti-missile system, the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) battery, to Israel. This deployment includes a US military crew to operate the system. The announcement was made by the Pentagon, with Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. General Pat Ryder stating that the deployment was authorized by Secretary Lloyd Austin at the direction of the President. This move aims to strengthen Israel’s air defense following attacks by Iran.
US Commitment to Israel’s Defense
Ryder emphasized that the THAAD battery will enhance Israel’s integrated air defense system, highlighting the US’s strong commitment to defending Israel and Americans in the region from further missile attacks by Iran. This deployment is part of broader US military adjustments to support Israel’s defense and protect Americans from threats by Iran and its allies.
Previous Deployments and Recent Attacks
This is not the first time the US has deployed a THAAD battery to the region. A similar deployment occurred last year following attacks on October 7th. In 2019, the US also deployed a THAAD battery to Israel for training and exercises.
Recently, Israeli troops in southern Lebanon were targeted by a large barrage of anti-tank missiles, resulting in injuries to several soldiers. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reported that during the attack, an IDF tank backed into a UNIFIL post while evacuating injured soldiers. Coordination with UNIFIL was maintained, and no danger was posed to UNIFIL forces.
International Reactions
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the United Nations to withdraw peacekeeping forces from southern Lebanon, citing the threat posed by Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, expressed concerns over reports of IDF targeting UNIFIL peacekeepers, urging Israel to stop such attacks and ensure the protection of UN personnel.
Doubts Revealed
THAAD -: THAAD stands for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense. It is a missile defense system designed to shoot down short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their final phase of flight.
Missile System -: A missile system is a set of weapons that can launch missiles to hit targets far away. It includes the missiles themselves and the equipment needed to launch and guide them.
Israel -: Israel is a country in the Middle East, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its historical and religious significance.
Iran -: Iran is a country in the Middle East, known for its rich history and culture. It has had tense relations with many countries, including the US and Israel.
UN Peacekeepers -: UN Peacekeepers are people sent by the United Nations to help maintain peace in areas of conflict. They work to prevent fighting and protect civilians.
