In a first, Israel uses America’s ‘THAAD’ system to intercept a missile fired by the Houthis in Yemen
The THAAD system, built by Lockheed Martin, was activated to intercept a projectile from Yemen within the last 24 hours. The source, who requested anonymity, stated that an analysis would determine whether the interception was successful. The Pentagon has yet to comment on the incident.
Decoding the capabilities of ‘THAAD’
The deployment of THAAD is part of an effort to bolster Israel’s air defense systems, adding to the country’s already advanced missile defense capabilities. The system’s activation comes amid growing tensions in the region, particularly with Yemen’s Houthi movement.
On Thursday, Israel launched airstrikes on targets in Yemen linked to the Iran-aligned Houthis, including Sanaa International Airport. Houthi media reported at least six fatalities from the strikes. In retaliation, the Houthis have fired missiles and drones at Israel, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the escalating conflict. Julien Harneis, the U.N.’s top aid official in Yemen, warned that the airstrikes on Sanaa airport were a direct blow to humanitarian efforts in the region. The airport, vital for international aid workers, has been a key point of access for providing assistance to northern Yemen. “If that airport is disabled, it will paralyze humanitarian operations,” Harneis said. He emphasized that Sanaa airport had not been a military target since 2016.
Concerns for conflict-hit Yemen
Yemen, facing a severe humanitarian crisis, is one of the most war-torn nations in the Middle East. More than half of its population—approximately 18 million people—are in need of humanitarian aid, a number expected to rise to 19 million next year due to worsening economic conditions.
Harneis also raised concerns about the impact of airstrikes on the Hodeidah port, a vital civilian facility through which Yemen imports about 80% of its food. Any damage to the port, he warned, would lead to significant suffering for the Yemeni population.
The deployment of THAAD in Israel marks a strategic shift in the U.S.-Israel defense partnership, underscoring the growing complexity of regional security dynamics and the increasing threat posed by missile attacks from actors such as the Houthis.
The system, capable of intercepting both short- and medium-range missiles, enhances Israel’s ability to defend against various missile threats in an already volatile region.
As Israel continues to face missile threats, the THAAD system serves as a crucial part of its defense architecture, aimed at ensuring security while navigating the complex geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
(With inputs from Reuters)
