NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – The USS Bulkeley and Norfolk-based USS Cole fired a dozen interceptors on Tuesday as part of the United States’ response to Iranian missiles launched at Israel.
According to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the attack of approximately 200 ballistic missiles was in retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah leaders in Beirut last week.
The White House said President Biden directed the U.S. military to aid in Israel’s defense, and to shoot down any missiles targeting the country.
Nearly two dozen Lebanese boarder communities were ordered by Israel to evacuate the area. Initial analysis of the attack suggests all of the rockets were fired from Iran, and that the Houthis were not involved, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder.
“We condemn these reckless attacks by Iran, and we call on Iran to halt any further attacks, including from its proxy forces,” Ryder said. “During the attack, the U.S. military coordinated closely with the Israeli Defense Forces to help defend Israel.”
Ryder said it is unknown whether or not the USS Bulkeley and USS Cole’s interceptors took down any of the missiles, but stated most were destroyed before reaching Israel.
“You don’t launch that many missiles at a target without the intent of hitting something,” Ryder said. “Just like the last time, their intent is to cause destruction. And so, fortunately… Israel has a very significant air defense capabilities, and the U.S., of course, played a role in helping on that front as well.”
According to Ryder, the attack resulted in minimal damage, and no U.S. personnel were injured or harmed as a result.