US Missile Stockpile Severely Depleted Defending Israel from Iranian Strikes—Replenishment Could Take Years

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 help defend Israel from massive Iranian missile barrages. Over 150 interceptors were fired, costing the US and Israel an estimated $1.5 billion and exposing a critical vulnerability in US missile defense readiness. Saudi Arabia reportedly refused a US request to provide additional interceptors, highlighting shifting regional alliances and Israel's heavy reliance on American military support. Defense analysts warn that it could take years and billions of dollars to replenish these advanced interceptors, raising concerns about US preparedness for future large-scale missile attacks. The episode underscores both the strategic costs of defending allies and the potential leverage the US holds over Israel due to this dependency.