In the midst of escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the US military announced on Monday that they have successfully neutralised more than 80 drones and at least six ballistic missiles intended for Israel from Iran and Yemen. The revelation came via an official statement from US Central Command (CENTCOM) which detailed the events of April 13 and 14.
According to the CENTCOM post, the engagement and destruction of these one-way attack drones and missiles were facilitated by US Central Command forces, with support from US European Command destroyers. The actions were aimed at thwarting potential strikes directed at Israel from both Iran and Yemen.
Expressing concern over Iran's actions, CENTCOM highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Iran's "unprecedented, malign, and reckless behaviour," which not only endangers regional stability but also jeopardises the safety of US and coalition forces operating in the area.
The announcement by CENTCOM followed a recent Iranian retaliatory attack on Israel, which itself was a response to an earlier incident involving an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria. Although the attack involving over 300 drones and missiles caused some damage, most of the projectiles were intercepted either by Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system or by the US and its partners, as reported by Al Jazeera.
US President Joe Biden commended the skill of US forces in assisting Israel in countering the incoming threats, emphasising the "ironclad" support for Israel's self-defence. However, he clarified that the US would not partake in any retaliatory actions initiated by Israel against Iran, as reported by Al Jazeera.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby praised Israel's ability to prevent significant damage, attributing it to Israel's military and diplomatic superiority. Kirby highlighted Israel's strong regional and international alliances that contributed to its successful defence against the Iranian attack.
In response to the situation, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin assured continued support for Israel's defence and emphasised the readiness of US forces to protect their troops and partners in the region while enhancing overall stability.
The escalating tensions have sparked concerns about the possibility of a full-fledged conflict between Israel and Iran, prompting calls for restraint from neighbouring countries and major global powers.
Following Iran's missile strikes, Israeli War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz affirmed Israel's determination to hold Iran accountable, stating that Israel would exact a price from Iran at a time and manner of its choosing. Gantz also acknowledged the international solidarity with Israel during the crisis and underscored the need to build a regional coalition to address the ongoing threats posed by Iran.