U.S. delivers second THAAD system to Israel amid rising tensions with Iran - media

The Times of Israel reported the information, citing the Saudi channel Al-Hadath.

According to the report, the THAAD system was likely delivered to Israel on April 5.

Flight tracking websites showed that the American C-5M Super Galaxy, the largest transport aircraft of the U.S. Air Force, landed at Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel and stayed there for about eight hours before taking off again.

The THAAD system deployed in Israel has been used multiple times to intercept missiles fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen, including in recent weeks.

The first THAAD battery was delivered to Israel last year, and about 100 U.S. military specialists are currently stationed in the country to operate it. THAAD complements the Patriot system, as it can protect larger areas and destroy targets at a range of 150-200 km.

• On April 4, the Israel Defense Forces resumed ground operations in the northern Gaza Strip and carried out airstrikes on the southern city of Khan Younis as part of a renewed military campaign aimed at pressuring Hamas to release Israeli hostages.