U.S. European commander warns Pentagon of dwindling missile defense capacity for Israel and homeland
Top U.S. general in Europe, Alexus Grynkewich, told the Pentagon he may soon lack enough assets to defend both the United States and Israel from ballistic missiles, urging additional resources for the Middle East.
The senior U.S. commander overseeing European forces, Alexus Grynkewich, warned Pentagon leaders that the current fleet of Navy destroyers in the Middle East may be insufficient to protect both American bases and Israel from Iranian ballistic missiles. He cautioned that lacking an additional destroyer would force a choice between homeland defense and Israel’s security. The warning comes after five months of intense fighting, during which U.S. ships have been tasked with intercepting missiles, blockading Iranian ports, and supporting Israeli air defenses.
Five destroyers are stationed in the theater, with a sixth expected soon, yet required maintenance cannot be performed while they remain on duty. Officials noted that such private appeals for resources are routine for senior officers. The situation underscores the broader strain on U.S. military assets amid a war that has become increasingly unpopular domestically.
Why it matters
The warning highlights a potential shortfall in U.S. missile defense that could affect both American and Israeli security.
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