US Missile Defenses Severely Depleted After Defending Israel From Massive Iranian Barrage

A recent 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran exposed critical weaknesses in the US and Israeli missile defense stockpiles. The US used up to 14%—and in some estimates, nearly a quarter—of its entire THAAD interceptor arsenal to help shield Israel from over 570 Iranian missiles, with replenishment expected to take years and cost billions. The Pentagon even requested missile interceptors from Saudi Arabia, which refused to assist. Analysts warn that this depletion leaves both nations vulnerable to future saturation attacks and highlights Israel's heavy reliance on US military support. The episode has sparked urgent calls for the US and its allies to rapidly rebuild their missile defense capabilities.