Israeli air defence system could only last for 10 to 12 more days: Reports

A US official has said Israel may be running low on its supply of missile interceptors, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal.

 The reported shortage has sparked concerns about Israel's ability to defend itself against continued long-range ballistic missile attacks from Iran.

 A separate report by The Washington Post on Tuesday, citing a source familiar with US and Israeli intelligence assessments, suggested that Israel could maintain its current air defence operations for only 10 to 12 more days unless the US steps in to replenish interceptor supplies or increases its involvement in the conflict. According to the source, Iran’s missile attacks have slowed somewhat since the initial escalation, but Israel’s missile defense system remains under severe strain.

The source also warned that by the end of the week, Israel may be forced to prioritise which incoming threats to intercept, noting that “the system is already overwhelmed.”

Since Israel launched a surprise operation on Friday targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure —deemed by Israeli officials as an effort to eliminate an "existential threat"— Iran has retaliated by firing over 370 missiles and sending hundreds of drones toward Israeli territory.

The attacks have so far resulted in 24 deaths and over 500 injuries in Israel.

The Israeli aggression resulted in at least 224 deaths in Iran, including military commanders, nuclear scientists and civilians.

The Journal report notes that US officials have been aware of the dwindling stockpile of Arrow interceptors for months and have been working to reinforce Israel’s air defense systems.

 However, US reserves are also limited, and concerns are growing about the US depleting its own missile interceptor supplies as it continues to assist Israel.

 While Israel has long employed a strategy of allowing missiles to fall in open areas to conserve resources, recent large-scale barrages have made it difficult to intercept all projectiles heading toward population centers or strategic infrastructure.

 The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) declined to comment on specific details regarding munitions but stated it is “prepared and ready to handle any scenario.”