U.S. destroyers thwart Iranian missile strike on Israel

American destroyers USS Cole and USS Bulkeley intercepted Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeting Israel. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has released footage showing the launch of intercept missiles.

According to an announcement from CENTCOM, on 1st October, the destroyers USS Cole and USS Bulkeley, part of the Sixth Fleet, intercepted multiple Iranian ballistic missiles in defence of Israel. The short, published videos depict two missile launches from American vessels stationed in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

Meanwhile, as reported by Fox News, General Pat Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, informed journalists that the USS Cole and USS Bulkeley fired approximately a dozen intercept missiles against incoming Iranian missiles as part of America's "commitment" to assisting Israel's defence. He did not specify which particular missiles were utilised.

Navy Captain Bill Urban, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command forces, confirmed that the destroyers are equipped with the Aegis weapon system, designed to defend against ballistic missiles.

The clash occurred when Iran launched around 200 missiles towards Israel. These attacks were intended as retaliation for the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

"No U.S. personnel were injured or harmed during the Iranian missile attack," reported Ryder.

Three American ships, the USS Arleigh Burke, USS Bulkeley, and USS Cole, are stationed off the eastern Mediterranean coast to aid in Israel's defence.