### US Deploys Advanced Anti-Missile System and Troops to Israel Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

In response to Iran's recent attacks on Israel, the United States is deploying an advanced anti-missile system along with US troops to bolster Israel's air defenses, the Pentagon announced on Sunday. This latest move underscores the rising tensions in the region, as the US and Israel prepare for potential future conflicts.

The Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery, an advanced anti-ballistic missile defense system, will be deployed to Israel to strengthen its air defense capabilities. This is not the first deployment of the THAAD system to the Middle East; it was previously sent to Israel in 2019 for an exercise, according to Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary.

Approximately 100 US troops will be stationed in Israel to operate the THAAD battery. While the deployment of US troops inside Israel is uncommon, this number is standard for managing the anti-missile defense system. The additional military presence comes at a time when the region is bracing for further escalation between Israel and Iran.

The Pentagon's decision follows unprecedented attacks by Iran against Israel on April 13 and October 1. The THAAD system is designed to intercept and destroy ballistic missiles, offering Israel enhanced defense against potential future attacks from Iran.

US consultations with Israel are ongoing regarding its response to Iran's recent aggression. US officials have reportedly advised against targeting Iranian nuclear sites or oil fields in any retaliatory measures. In a conversation on Wednesday, US President Joe Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ensure any response remains "proportional."

Since the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, the US has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East. This includes bolstering air defenses across the region, deploying additional warships and aircraft carriers to strategic locations, and sending extra troops to Cyprus to aid in potential evacuation planning. These actions reflect the heightened state of alert and readiness amid escalating hostilities in the region.