In an effort to support the defense of Israel, the United States has quietly established a network of air defenses across the region, effectively thwarting Iranian drone and missile attacks. President Joe Biden, in a statement on Saturday, commended the extraordinary skill of US servicemembers and highlighted the successful interception of nearly all incoming drones and missiles.

As part of this network, the US Army has deployed long-range Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense surface-to-air missile batteries in Iraq, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and at the secretive Site 512 base in Israel. These assets, along with American aircraft stationed in Kuwait, Jordan, UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, work collaboratively to provide a protective dome over Israel and regional bases.

Importantly, the United Kingdom is closely integrated into this regional war network, while other countries such as Bahrain have acquired Patriot missiles to join the efforts. The US Navy is also actively involved, with four ships from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower battle group playing a pivotal role in intercepting Iran-backed attacks.

Equipped with long-range Standard surface-to-air missiles and the Phalanx close-in weapon system, a Gatling gun for defense, these ships have successfully engaged Houthi drones and missiles in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The destroyer USS Gravely has been conducting defensive and offensive operations since mid-March, intercepting Houthi threats. Similarly, the USS Mason recently targeted a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile, aimed at a US commercial ship, and the USS Laboon has been operating primarily in the Gulf of Aden. The USS Philippine Sea has served as the main air defense command-and-control hub.

Aside from their military actions, American ships have made discreet visits to ports in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Djibouti, with Oman's port of Duqm being the most frequently visited foreign port. Lebanon has also become entangled in the conflict as Israel and Hezbollah exchange attacks. Additionally, the White House confirmed the involvement of US fighter jets in shooting down Iranian missiles, with flight trackers identifying a US Air Force refueling plane stationed in Qatar conducting missions over Iraq during the recent Iranian attack.

According to reports, over 100 interceptions of Iranian drones and missiles were conducted by US forces, out of the estimated total of around 170 drones, more than 30 cruise missiles, and over 120 ballistic missiles launched at Israel on the weekend.

Despite the clear regional network of defense systems and the growing scope of the conflict, the Biden administration has steadfastly denied that the Hamas war has spread beyond Gaza. However, recent events have shown that fighting has extended to Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Yemen.

With the successful interception of Iranian drones and missiles, the US air defense network has provided crucial support in safeguarding Israel and its regional bases from immediate threats. As tensions and hostilities persist, the collaboration and effectiveness of this network will remain pivotal in maintaining regional security.