From: The Times of Israel December 28, 2024
In first US THAAD system deployed in Israel assists in Houthi missile interception

Iran-backed rebels say fresh air strikes hit Yemeni capital, several hours after terrorists launch ballistic missile at Israel for fifth time in eight nights

An American missile defense system battery participated in the interception of a Houthi ballistic missile launched at Israel from Yemen early on Friday, the first time the system has been used since being deployed by the US in Israel in October

The THAAD or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System, was used to try to intercept the missile, and an analysis would determine THAAD’s success, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Footage posted to social media showed the THAAD system launching an interceptor.
“Eighteen years I’ve been waiting for this,” an American soldier can be heard saying in the clip.

The IDF said the Houthi missile was intercepted by air defenses, without specifying if this was an Israeli or American system.

The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Security sources speaking to the Walla news site said THAAD intercepted the missile and added that the interception projected strength in the Middle East by demonstrating to Israel’s adversaries the US-Israeli partnership over missile defense.

Former IDF Air Defense commander Brigadier General (res.) Zvika Haimovich told Walla that US air defense activity in Israel is unusual because the US has subordinated its forces to Israeli command, whereas in other parts of the world, the US takes charge.

The THAAD battery was deployed in Israel following Iran’s October 1 ballistic missile attack.