"In accordance with our ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, U.S. forces in the region are currently defending against Iranian-launched missiles targeting Israel," the official said. "Our forces remain postured to provide additional defensive support and to protect U.S. forces operating in the region."

Iran's ballistic missile attack on Israel caused few casualties and little damage, but it marked a further escalation of tensions in the Middle East as Israeli forces battle Tehran's militant allies in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip.

Lt Col Nadav Shoshani joins The Lead