Washington (Pakistan News Online) United States of America has deployed the advanced ‘Terminal High Altitude Area Defense’ (THAAD) system in Israel to bolster its defense against Iran.
According to details, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, speaking to reporters en route to Ukraine, confirmed the THAAD system’s installation in Israel.
While he refrained from disclosing whether the system is fully operational, Austin assured, “We have the capability to bring it online quickly, and we are moving according to our expectations.”
President Joe Biden described the deployment as part of efforts to support Israel’s defense, with around 100 U.S. military personnel accompanying the system.
The move follows reports that Iran fired over 180 missiles towards Israel on October 1st, raising concerns of potential retaliatory actions.
THAAD deployment comes at a significant time in U.S, when Presidential election is going to be held on the 5th of November, President Biden’s decision aligns with his administration’s commitment to strengthen ties with Israel and position itself as a steadfast ally amid Middle Eastern instability.
As foreign policy becomes a significant issue on the campaign trail, the Biden administration hopes this show of military support will resonate with voters concerned about national security and international relations.
Republican candidates, however, have criticized Biden’s foreign policy approach, arguing that the administration should focus more on deterrence rather than reactionary measures.
They claim the Iran-Israel tensions highlight the consequences of perceived U.S. weakness in the region and warn that further escalation could jeopardize American interests.
With the U.S. elections approaching, the Biden administration’s handling of the Middle East will likely influence voter sentiment.
Both Democrats and Republicans will seek to leverage these developments to sway undecided voters concerned with America’s global standing and military commitments abroad.