Israel may face missile shortage like US, giving Iran leverage, ex-Navy head warns

Former Israeli Navy commander Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eliezer Marom has voiced significant concerns regarding Israel's missile interceptor supply, suggesting the nation may face a shortage akin to that experienced by the United States. This potential scarcity could critically undermine Israel's defensive capabilities, particularly in the face of regional threats.

“

When it comes to Arrow missiles, we have fewer than we would like, and production capacity is very limited.

In an interview with 103FM, Marom stated, "When it comes to Arrow missiles, we have fewer than we would like, and production capacity is very limited." He noted that a substantial portion of recent interceptions relied on THAAD systems and SM-3 missiles launched from U.S. Navy ships. Marom questioned Israel's strategic position should it need to engage in a larger conflict, such as defending Taiwan against China, highlighting the potential inadequacy of current interceptor stockpiles.

“

We're only fighting Iran. What happens tomorrow morning if we have to fight China, should it decide to invade Taiwan? That would be an entirely different war. This issue requires a thorough investigation.

Marom also expressed apprehension that Israel might be compelled to act unilaterally against Iran if Washington remains hesitant. He believes Tehran is exploiting this delay to accelerate its nuclear and missile programs. "What is happening right now is that the Americans really do not want to strike," Marom observed, citing the U.S. military's own munitions shortage as a primary reason, alongside President Trump's focus on domestic economic issues like fuel prices.

“

What is happening right now is that the Americans really do not want to strike. There are many reasons for that, but the main ones are the shortage of munitions, especially interceptors.

According to Marom, Iran's nuclear ambitions and ballistic missile development are prioritized over other concerns for the current U.S. administration. He suggested that Iran aims to achieve a nuclear bomb and a significant stockpile of ballistic missiles, while potentially seeking an understanding over the Strait of Hormuz and undermining the Abraham Accords. Marom pointed to Qatar as a key player, asserting that the nation's sole interest lies in ensuring Iran's stability and strength, which could influence international responses to Iran's actions.

“

The ones stirring this entire pot are the Qataris, and Qatar has one interest only: that Iran remains stable and strong.