US spent nearly $500M intercepting Iranian missiles targeting Israel, Pentagon says

WASHINGTON, United States (MNTV) — The United States fired almost $500 million worth of interceptor missiles to shield Israel from Iranian attacks during their recent conflict, according to a Pentagon budget document released this month.

Dated August 1, the report shows $498.3 million was redirected to replenish stocks of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors used at Israel’s request. The transfer is listed as an “emergency budget requirement” and a “congressional special interest item,” according to The War Zone, which first reported the figures.

A July CNN report, citing sources familiar with the operation, estimated that US forces launched between 100 and 150 of the high-end interceptors during the 12-day war — roughly a quarter of Washington’s available supply.

The clash began June 13, when Israel struck Iranian nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan and other sites, as well as military command centers, according to Iranian state media and Israel’s army. The raids reportedly killed Iran’s chief of general staff, senior Revolutionary Guard officers, several nuclear scientists and hundreds of civilians.

Iran retaliated by firing hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities, killing dozens and inflicting widespread damage. US missile-defense batteries — including THAAD systems deployed in the region — were activated to intercept much of the incoming fire.

The spending revelation underscores the scale of American involvement in defending its ally and the steep costs associated with high-end missile-defense systems. Analysts warn that the heavy use of interceptors could strain US stockpiles if tensions with Iran or other adversaries escalate further.