Israel Grapples with Potential Interceptor Missile Shortage Amid Growing Threats

Israel is grappling with a potential shortage of interceptor missiles amid the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, and as it prepares for the possibility of a broader confrontation with Iran. According to a report from the Financial Times, experts warn that Israel’s air defense systems, designed to counter a range of missile threats, could be stretched thin as the conflict escalates.

The U.S. has been assisting Israel in addressing these shortages, particularly with its promise to send the advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system. However, Israel may soon face tough decisions about which targets to prioritize defending as supplies run low.

“Israel’s munitions issue is serious,” said Dana Stroul, a former U.S. defense official. She emphasized that if Iran retaliates against Israel and Hezbollah joins the fight, Israel’s air defenses could become overwhelmed. This is especially concerning as Washington’s ability to continue supplying both Israel and Ukraine may be limited.

Boaz Levy, CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries, explained that production lines for missile interceptors are operating around the clock. “Some of our lines are working 24 hours, seven days a week,” Levy said. “Our goal is to meet all our obligations.”

Israel’s air defense array includes multiple layers: the Iron Dome for short-range rockets, David’s Sling for medium-range missiles, and the Arrow system, which targets long-range ballistic missiles. Together, these systems have successfully intercepted thousands of rockets and missiles since Hamas initiated the current war with its October 7 attack last year. According to military figures, more than 20,000 projectiles have been fired at Israel from Gaza and Lebanon, with air defenses neutralizing the majority of those aimed at populated areas.

The situation grew even more critical in October when Iran launched its most intense missile attack to date, firing 180 ballistic missiles at Israel. Thanks to the support of the U.S. and regional allies, Israel was able to defend itself from the onslaught. However, the Jewish state has vowed to respond to this attack at a time of its choosing, a move that could provoke a larger response from Tehran and its proxies.

While Hezbollah has been launching daily attacks on Israel since the October war began, experts believe the terror group has not yet unleashed its full military capability. Former IDF general Assaf Orion noted that Hezbollah has only been firing around 10% of its prewar capacity hundreds of rockets a day instead of the estimated 2,000 it is capable of.

“Hezbollah has enough left to mount a strong operation,” Orion warned, explaining that the terror group’s restrained actions may be a choice, but are also a result of successful IDF operations degrading its capabilities.

In response to the ongoing threat, Israel has launched a ground offensive in southern Lebanon to push Hezbollah away from its northern border, targeting weapons depots and other infrastructure. This campaign aims to neutralize the possibility of a Hezbollah invasion, similar to Hamas’ attack from Gaza last year.

Despite these ongoing challenges, Israel remains committed to defending its citizens against the growing threats from its northern and southern borders. As the situation develops, Israel's preparedness and resilience in the face of these challenges highlight the country’s determination to safeguard its people.

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