US general warns Pentagon he lacks naval assets to keep shielding Israel from missiles: Report
General Alexus Grynkewich, commander of US European Command (EUCOM), warned the Pentagon he may not have enough naval assets to continue missile-defense operations for Israel without an additional US Navy destroyer.
Grynkewich said he could be forced to prioritize defending the US homeland over Israel if another destroyer is not assigned to his command.
US destroyers have been intercepting ballistic missiles fired at Israel from Iran and attacks by Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen; five destroyers based in Rota, Spain are currently available, with two operating in the Mediterranean and three at the base.
Prolonged deployments have increased wear on vessels and consumed advanced interceptor missiles, raising sustainability concerns; EUCOM also faces potential Russian threats.
US interceptor missile stockpiles have been significantly reduced by months of defending Israel, prompting concerns about sustaining future operations.
