US military intercepts Iranian missiles, drones aimed at Israel
American forces have been operating in the air, at sea, and on land to counter what Israeli military sources described as a sustained Iranian response to Israeli strikes.
The United States military has taken an active role in intercepting missiles and drones launched by Iran toward Israel, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday night, citing US and Israeli officials.
American forces have been operating in the air, at sea, and on land to counter what Israeli military sources described as a sustained Iranian response to Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear infrastructure and military leadership.
According to the sources, Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles in four separate barrages, along with more than 200 drones aimed at Israeli territory.
Ahead of the Iranian retaliation, US forces had already deployed fighter jets, Navy destroyers, and ground-based air-defense systems in the region to prepare for potential attacks. A senior US official said this included the mobilization of aircraft around the Middle East to protect American forces and installations, following threats from Tehran.
The US previously provided similar support during Iranian missile attacks last year, when American assets were deployed to bolster Israel's air defenses. In one of those incidents, around 200 Iranian missiles targeted Israeli military and intelligence sites, with several projectiles penetrating Israel's defense systems.
US has not participated in offensive operations against Iran
Currently, at this stage, the US has not participated in offensive operations against Iran. However, the Pentagon has confirmed that American forces have intercepted a number of Iranian projectiles during the latest exchanges, including drone interceptions by coalition forces at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq.The drones were believed to have originated from Iraqi territory.
In Israel, US ground-based systems - such as Patriot missile batteries - contributed to the defense against incoming attacks.
These systems are stationed in multiple locations throughout the region, including Gulf states, Jordan, and Iraq.
The US also operates a THAAD battery in Israel, which was deployed during the Biden administration following Iranian attacks in April 2024 and has been used in conjunction with Israel's Arrow missile defense system to counter projectiles from Yemen, including those fired by Houthi forces.
US Navy destroyers have also engaged Iranian missiles targeting Israel, according to US officials. Similar actions were taken by American warships in the Mediterranean during Iranian missile attacks last year.
The number of projectiles intercepted by US forces is still being assessed, according to the Pentagon. Overnight impacts were reported in the Tel Aviv area, resulting in three fatalities and damage to property.
US officials indicated that if hostilities between Israel and Iran continue to escalate, additional American military personnel and assets may target US bases and embassies in the region or elsewhere.
The situation remains fluid, and both Israeli and American defense officials are continuing to monitor developments closely.
