The unusual show of U.S. military force adds to Israel’s robust defenses.
The Pentagon announced this week that a THAAD anti-missile system and corresponding troops will be sent to Israel to dissuade further missile attacks from Iran. Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder described the deployment as part of “the broader adjustments the U.S. military has made in recent months” to support Israel.
A THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system generally requires about 100 troops to operate, bringing six truck mounted launchers, highly calibrated interceptors, and powerful radar capabilities to the battlefield. The United States has already invested millions of dollars in weapons to Israel.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned on Sunday that the United States was putting the lives of its troops “at risk by deploying them to operate U.S. missile systems in Israel.” Despite Iran’s warnings, experts say that the Islamic country seeks to avoid direct war with the United States. The U.S. deployment to Israel is a challenging factor for Iran to negotiate around.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Defense Secretary Austin to be prudent in his engagements with foreign defense ministers and counterparts.
- For the president and Pentagon officials as they continue to pledge support to Israel and obligate the American military in the Middle East.
- For the peace of Jerusalem and for discernment for the heads of state in Israel and surrounding nations.
Sources: Reuters, MSN
