The United States played a significant role in helping Israel defend against Iran’s aerial assault, following a call between Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan called the Iranian missile strike a significant escalation, but praised the cooperation between the U.S. and Israel in preventing casualties during the attack. The missile strike was in retaliation for the assassination of several key Hezbollah and IRGC figures, prompting Israel to close its airspace and order residents in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem to shelter in place. The Israeli security cabinet also convened in a bunker in Jerusalem as a precaution.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for the missile strike, warning that if Israel retaliated, they would face more attacks. Israeli Defense Force officials confirmed that no casualties had been reported following the attacks, and it remained unclear if any targets had been hit by the Iranian missiles. The U.S. defense official reiterated the country’s commitment to Israel’s security, stating that U.S. forces in the region were defending against Iranian-launched missiles targeting Israel. Three U.S. guided-missile destroyers were positioned off the eastern Mediterranean to help defend Israel, including the USS Arleigh Burke, USS Bulkeley, and USS Cole.
In a readout of a call between Austin and Gallant, the Pentagon reaffirmed the U.S.’ readiness to defend U.S. personnel, allies, and partners against threats from Iran and Iran-backed terrorist organizations. U.S. naval destroyers were heavily involved in defending Israel against the Iranian attack, coordinating closely with Israeli Air Defense units to intercept incoming missiles. This was not the first time U.S. ships had intercepted Iranian attacks on Israel, as they had previously shot down a significant number of drones and missiles during a previous attack. Israel has its own defense systems, including the Iron Dome and Arrow Missile Defense systems, in addition to the support provided by its allies.
Israeli officials stated that the Iranian strikes had ceased, allowing Israelis to leave their shelters and begin assessing the damage. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari reported that multiple interceptions were carried out during the defense, with impacts occurring in central and southern areas of the country. The IDF was in the process of assessing the situation and searching for any casualties. The collaboration between the U.S. and Israel in defending against the Iranian missile strike highlighted the close relationship between the two countries and their shared commitment to regional security. The U.S. military’s presence in the region demonstrated its readiness to respond to threats and protect its allies.
