In response to the recent surge in missile attacks by Hamas terrorists on Israel, the U.S. Department of Defense has confirmed plans to send additional Iron Dome missile defense systems to the country. The move comes as Israel continues to defend itself against thousands of rockets fired from the Gaza Strip.
The Pentagon official stated, “The U.S. will be flowing additional Iron Dome support to Israel. As a result, the Department of Defense is currently engaged in planning to support the provision of U.S. Iron Dome batteries to Israel.” This decision comes after Hamas conducted a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, marking the deadliest assault on the country in 50 years.
The recent attack included over 3,000 rockets, drones, and commando raids targeting Israeli cities, military bases, and infrastructure. However, the Iron Dome system proved its effectiveness by neutralizing approximately 90% of the incoming threats, according to the Israeli military. The system, which was first deployed in 2011, was designed to protect Israeli civilians from rocket and mortar attacks by militant groups in Gaza and Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon.
The Iron Dome operates using a sophisticated radar system that detects incoming projectiles from a distance of about 40 miles. It then calculates the trajectory and potential threat of the projectiles, intercepting any rockets deemed dangerous with a launcher containing 20 interceptor missiles.
In a bipartisan effort, U.S. Representatives Jared Moskowitz and Brian Mast, both Democrats from Florida, have called for the transfer of Iron Dome systems to Israel. They highlighted the fact that the U.S. currently owns two such systems that are not being utilized, despite their purchase being in accordance with the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act.
Moskowitz emphasized the life-saving impact of the Iron Dome, stating, “Every time the Iron Dome is used, it saves thousands of innocent Israeli and Palestinian lives from Hamas terrorists.” He further stressed the importance of standing with Israel in its fight against those who seek to destroy the country and its people.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Defense is also taking steps to bolster forces in the Middle East to deter further conflict and defend national security interests. The New Jersey Air National Guard’s 119th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron has arrived in the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, adding additional F-16 Fighting Falcon Squadrons to the region. Additionally, the U.S. Navy has deployed the USS Mount Whitney, its command and control ship, to the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.
The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, previously stationed in the Eastern Mediterranean, is also being redirected to the Persian Gulf. In addition, a Marine rapid response force known as the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, comprising nearly 2,000 Marines and sailors, is moving closer to Israel via the Red Sea. This force includes the amphibious ready groups USS Bataan and USS Carter Hall.
As tensions rise in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the U.S. government is taking proactive measures to ensure stability and defend its national security interests in the region.
In conclusion, the U.S. Department of Defense’s plan to send additional Iron Dome missile defense systems to Israel demonstrates its commitment to supporting the country in the face of Hamas attacks. With the Iron Dome’s proven effectiveness in neutralizing rocket threats, this move aims to safeguard the lives of both Israeli and Palestinian civilians. Furthermore, the U.S. military’s deployment of additional forces in the Middle East underscores its determination to maintain stability and protect its national security interests amidst the ongoing conflict.
