US commander: We may be forced to prioritize defending Washington over “Israel”

WASHAINGTON, Aug. 02 (YPA) – The commander of US European Command, General Alexus Grynkewich, has warned the Pentagon that available naval forces are no longer sufficient to continue supporting Israel’s defense against ballistic missiles amid growing pressure on the US Navy.

According to The Washington Post, Grynkewich told senior Pentagon officials that without an additional destroyer, the command may be forced to prioritize defending US territory over missile-defense missions related to Israel.

The warning comes as the United States faces multiple simultaneous military commitments, including the ongoing confrontation with Iran, increased naval deployments in the region, deterrence efforts against Russia, and obligations toward NATO.

The report said the US Navy is under increasing strain due to continued Middle East operations, including maritime security missions and actions linked to tensions with Iran, as well as the depletion of missile-defense system supplies.

US destroyers deployed in the eastern Mediterranean have long been part of Israel’s missile-defense network and have previously intercepted missiles launched from Iran and Yemen’s Houthi movement toward Israel.

The newspaper reported that the US fleet currently includes five destroyers operating from Spain’s Rota base, with a sixth expected to join this year, though intensive operations have increased maintenance demands.

The United States also maintains a major naval presence in the Arabian Sea, including two aircraft carriers and at least 15 warships, to support military operations and maritime measures related to Iran.

The developments come amid growing criticism inside the United States over the continuation of the war with Iran, with lawmakers expressing concern over political and economic consequences ahead of midterm elections and fears of rising fuel and food prices.

@E.Y.M