Kathmandu— A top American military commander has warned the Pentagon that the United States lacks sufficient naval resources to defend Israel against ongoing Iranian ballistic missile attacks, raising concerns about the depletion of advanced US interceptor missiles. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, chief of US European Command, informed officials this week that without additional naval support, tough decisions may be necessary between protecting American interests and sustaining missile defense operations for Israel.

Strategic Dilemma in Naval Resources

Gen. Grynkewich's warning comes amid growing concerns over the depletion of advanced US interceptor missiles following months of military activity in the Middle East. The general cautioned that without deploying another US Navy destroyer to the region, European Command would face a critical decision between safeguarding American interests and maintaining missile defense operations for Israel against Iranian attacks.

The Pentagon declined to comment on the report, while an Israeli embassy spokesperson could not be reached immediately for further clarification.

Historical Precedents and Current Concerns

Previous reports have highlighted similar concerns about shrinking missile stocks. The New York Times reported earlier this month that President Donald Trump halted strikes on Iran due to the risk of depleting US air defense supplies in the Middle East. Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, advised that widening military operations against Iran could critically reduce interceptor missile stocks available to US Central Command.

An internal Department of War assessment found that several classes of precision-guided missiles have been significantly drawn down during the war with Iran, creating a near-term risk for future conflicts. Replenishing these systems could take years.

Quantitative Analysis and Inventory Depletion

An analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimated that over the past seven weeks of fighting, the United States has expended large shares of its advanced missile inventory. The report states that about 45 per cent of Precision Strike Missile inventory, at least half of THAAD interceptor missiles, around 50 per cent of Patriot interceptor missiles, roughly 30 per cent of Tomahawk cruise missile stockpile, more than 20 per cent of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles, and approximately 20 per cent of SM-3 and SM-6 interceptor missiles have been used.

The report also notes that the United States has fired substantially more advanced interceptor missiles in defense of Israel against Iranian ballistic missile attacks compared to Israel's own usage during the conflict.

As the military seeks to support regional allies while preserving sufficient missile stocks for future contingencies, the logistical and strategic challenges facing Washington continue to mount.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.