A team of U.S. troops has arrived in Israel to assist in operating an advanced anti-missile system provided by President Joe Biden. This deployment aims to enhance Israel’s defenses against Iran missile attacks from Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Deployment of U.S. Troops and THAAD System
The Pentagon confirmed that the first group of approximately 100 U.S. troops has arrived in Israel along with components of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system. This marks the first U.S. troop deployment in Israel since the Hamas-led attacks a year ago, which sparked the ongoing war in Gaza.
Major General Pat Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, announced that some THAAD system components were delivered on Sunday, with more expected soon. He emphasized that the deployment underscores the U.S. commitment to protecting Israel and its citizens from ballistic missile threats posed by Iran. Recently, Tehran launched hundreds of missiles at Israel, most of which were intercepted.
Israel’s Response to Recent Iran Missile Threats
In response to the missile attacks on October 1, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant vowed a “lethal, precise, and surprising” retaliation. The Iranian missile strike was reportedly a response to the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
Recent Incidents and Ongoing Conflicts
- A police officer was killed and four others were injured in a shooting incident along a highway north of Ashdod, Israel.
- Israeli airstrikes targeted a Hezbollah commander, Khader Al-Abed Bahja, believed to be responsible for drone incursions into Israel. This follows a drone attack that resulted in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers and injuries to many more.
Significance of the THAAD Deployment
Avi Melamed, a regional analyst and former Israeli intelligence official, stated that the THAAD deployment signifies U.S.-Israeli coordination to address Iran’s missile threats. He noted that this military collaboration aims to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader regional war.
Melamed highlighted that the U.S. intends to convey a message to Iran that any Israeli military response would be “significant yet restrained.” He warned that a harsh retaliation from Iran would be counterproductive, potentially undermining the regime’s control and image in the region.
Netanyahu’s Political Landscape
As the Gaza conflict continues into its second year, there are concerns about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future. Despite facing criticism for security failures after the Hamas-led attack, Netanyahu has regained some popularity amid escalating clashes with Hezbollah. A recent poll indicates an 11-point lead over opposition leader Yair Lapid.
Experts suggest that Netanyahu may aim to expand the war into Lebanon and Iran, possibly to bolster support for Donald Trump in upcoming elections. The United States remains a critical player, but its influence to halt the conflict appears limited.
Humanitarian Concerns in Gaza
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin have urged Israel to enhance the humanitarian situation in Gaza or risk potential legal consequences regarding U.S. military aid. They outlined demands for improved aid access, including the daily transfer of aid trucks and the opening of additional border crossings.
Ongoing Military Operations and Humanitarian Crisis
Israeli military operations have resulted in significant casualties in Gaza. Recent airstrikes reportedly killed dozens of Palestinians, particularly in areas like Jabalia and Khan Younis. The United Nations has expressed concerns over the humanitarian crisis, indicating that the Israeli military appears to be isolating North Gaza from the rest of the territory.
Vaccination Campaigns in Gaza
Amid the conflict, a second round of polio vaccinations for children in Gaza has begun, with over 92,000 children receiving the vaccine. Health officials aim to vaccinate nearly 600,000 children across the war-torn region. The World Health Organization has called for continued respect for humanitarian pauses, emphasizing the urgent need for vaccines, aid, and peace for the children of Gaza.