Hours after Tehran fired nearly 200 missiles at Israel, US President Joe Biden made a statement indicating that the attack appeared to have been defeated and ineffective and credited the Israeli military for their capabilities in repelling the assault.
The Israeli military confirmed that there were no reported injuries from the attack. Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Biden stated, “At my direction, the United States military actively supported the defence of Israel. We are still assessing the impact, but based on what we know, the attack appears to have been defeated and ineffective. This is a testament to Israeli military capability and also a testament to intensive planning and coordination between the United States and Israel to anticipate and defend against such a brazen attack.”
The President’s Office further indicated that Biden had directed the US military to aid Israel’s defence against Iranian attacks and shoot down missiles targeting the country.
The Pentagon press secretary, Major General Patrick S Ryder, revealed that while most of the missiles were destroyed before reaching their targets, some managed to strike and cause minimal damage. Ryder noted the involvement of two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, the USS Cole and USS Bulkeley, which deployed a dozen interceptors at the incoming Iranian ballistic missiles as part of the defence of Israel in the eastern Mediterranean.
Vice-President Kamala Harris condemned the attack, emphasising Iran’s destabilising and dangerous presence in the Middle East. She stressed the US commitment to defending its forces and interests against Iran and Iran-backed terrorists, vowing to work with allies to disrupt Iran’s aggressive behaviour.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasised the unacceptability of the attack and underscored the world’s obligation to condemn it. He reiterated the commitment to Israel’s defence, alongside the US and other partners in the region, and pledged close coordination in the aftermath of the attack.
Sullivan outlined the US military’s close coordination with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to defend against the attack. He extended condolences to the victims of the attack and mentioned ongoing consultations with Israel on potential response measures.
Former President Donald Trump criticised the Biden administration, attributing the attack to their leadership. He asserted that during his term, Iran was contained and sought deals, whereas the current administration had facilitated Iran’s resurgence in exporting terror.
The situation continues to evolve, with world leaders closely monitoring developments in the aftermath of the Iranian missile attack on Israel.
(With agency inputs)