US Missile Stockpile Severely Depleted After Defending Israel From Iranian Strikes—Saudi Arabia Refused to Help

During a recent 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, the United States used up to 14% of its global THAAD missile interceptor stockpile to defend Israel from massive Iranian missile barrages. The US reportedly asked Saudi Arabia to provide additional interceptors, but Riyadh refused, highlighting shifting alliances and regional tensions. The rapid depletion of interceptors has raised alarms among defense analysts, who warn it could take years and billions of dollars to replenish US and Israeli missile defenses. This situation exposes both Israel's heavy reliance on US military support and potential vulnerabilities in US preparedness for future large-scale missile attacks. The episode also underscores the growing complexity of Middle Eastern geopolitics, with Saudi Arabia's stance signaling a possible realignment.