The United States played a significant role in helping Israel defend against Iran’s aerial assault on Tuesday. Following a massive missile strike by Iran, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that the U.S. and Israel were able to create a situation in which no one was killed in the attack on Israel. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that the attack was in retaliation for the assassination of several key figures, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and IRGC commander Brig. Gen. Abbas Nilforushan. Israel closed its airspace, ordered residents in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem to shelter in place, and convened the security cabinet in a bunker in Jerusalem.
The Israeli Defense Force (IDF) reported that no casualties were known to have occurred as a result of the Iranian missile attack. The U.S. defense official stated that U.S. forces in the region were defending against Iranian-launched missiles targeting Israel in accordance with the commitment to Israel’s security. The Pentagon emphasized its determination to prevent any actor from exploiting tensions or expanding the conflict in the region. Three U.S. guided-missile destroyers were positioned off the eastern Mediterranean to assist in defending Israel against the Iranian attack on Tuesday.
During the recent attack, U.S. naval destroyers joined Israeli Air Defense units in firing interceptors to shoot down inbound missiles. In a previous attack by Iran, U.S. destroyers had shot down more than 81 attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles. Israel has its own defense systems such as the Iron Dome, Arrow Missile Defense System, and David’s Sling which are capable of intercepting missiles fired from various distances. IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that it was believed the Iranian strikes had stopped, and it was safe for Israelis to leave their shelters.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin assured Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of increased force readiness and reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to defend U.S. personnel, allies, and partners against threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations. The U.S. has maintained a strong military posture in the region to protect U.S. forces operating in the area. The coordinated efforts between the U.S. and Israel in defending against Iranian attacks have proven successful in preventing casualties and minimizing the impact of the assaults. The ongoing support from the U.S. demonstrates a dedication to ensuring the security and stability of Israel and the region as a whole.
