National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has stated that the Iranian missile attack on Israel was deemed to be “defeated and ineffective,” with the U.S. military coordinating with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to repel the strikes. The attack, consisting of nearly 200 ballistic missiles, was seen as a significant escalation by Iran in response to the deaths of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, following Israeli strikes against Tehran’s proxies in the region. While no deaths were reported on the Israeli side, the White House is monitoring the reported death of a Palestinian civilian in Jericho. U.S. naval destroyers joined Israeli Air Defense units in firing interceptors to shoot down inbound missiles, with President Biden and Vice President Harris monitoring the situation from the White House Situation Room.
The Pentagon reported that U.S. forces fired approximately 12 interceptors against Iranian missiles, indicating a significant escalation by Iran that was ultimately thwarted with the joint efforts of the U.S. and Israel. The White House emphasized the importance of protecting American interests in the region and working with Israel to determine appropriate responses and secure stability going forward. U.S. service members in the region are a key focus for protection, while American citizens in Lebanon were urged to follow State Department guidance in leaving the country using civilian commercial means. The White House expressed condolences to the victims of a shooting in Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, where at least eight people were killed.
The incident is believed to be a terror attack, underscoring the ongoing security challenges in the region. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had issued warnings for citizens to take shelter as the Iron Dome anti-missile defense system worked to intercept incoming rockets. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps cited the recent killings of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran as reasons for the missile barrage, threatening Israel with further attacks if they respond. The White House had received information earlier about Iran’s imminent missile attack plans, but was not directly warned by Iran prior to the strike.
The collaboration between the U.S. and Israel in repelling the missile attack showcased successful joint efforts in ensuring the safety and security of both nations during moments of escalating tensions. The coordination between U.S. naval forces and Israeli Air Defense units, as well as the monitoring of the situation by top U.S. officials, exemplified a strong commitment to maintaining stability in the region. The threat of further attacks from Iran looms, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and strategic planning to address security challenges in the Middle East. With ongoing consultation with Israeli counterparts, the U.S. will work to determine appropriate next steps in responding to the recent escalation of hostilities.
