U.S. sends Israel additional THAAD missile to counter Houthis 

The U.S. has transferred two Patriot batteries and a THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile interceptor battery to Israel, according to reports overnight from the Saudi news outlet Al-Arabiya Al-Hadith.

The deployment comes amid ongoing U.S. military operations in Yemen targeting the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, and against the backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions - frequently the subject of stern warnings by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The THAAD system, developed by Lockheed Martin, is one of the world’s most advanced air defense solutions for intercepting ballistic missiles. Capable of targeting threats both inside and outside the atmosphere, THAAD provides a vital layer of protection in high-threat environments.

It is believed that the latest battery’s transfer was coordinated with full American approval, intended not only to bolster Israel’s air defense but also to project strong American military presence in the region. The move is seen as a calculated message of deterrence to regional adversaries, particularly Iran and its proxies.

Roughly 100 American soldiers are expected to operate the newly arrived battery. Notably, the first THAAD system was delivered to Israel in October and has since successfully intercepted multiple missiles launched from Yemen.

Adding to speculation, reports emerged that a U.S. Air Force C-5M Super Galaxy—the largest military cargo aircraft in the American fleet—landed at Israel’s Nevatim Airbase and remained on the ground for eight hours before departing.