Hezbollah Rockets Overwhelm Iron Dome: Aggressive Posture by Both Sides in 2024

Hezbollah Rockets Overwhelm Iron Dome: 

Hezbollah Rockets Overwhelm Iron Dome on Tuesday, when they launched nearly 300 rockets and drones at Israel and Occupied Golan Heights, Israeli newspaper Times of Israel reported, citing the military. At least 270 missiles were launched from Lebanon by the militant group into Israeli areas and the Golan Heights, leading to material damage in several places.

Israeli security forces examine the site hit by a rocket.

Hezbollah’s rockets and drones sparked several fires in northern Israel

Picture Courtesy: BBC NewsDavid Gritten

https://youtu.be/WqcQilH92pI?si=pC1suVWfVp5I1urH

Hezbollah’s barrage of rockets overwhelmed Israel’s Iron Dome defence system, impacting over seven cities. This unprecedented attack has prompted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take urgent measures. This article delves into the details of the incident, the effectiveness of the Iron Dome, and the broader implications for regional stability.

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The Iron Dome’s Capabilities and Limitations

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from the Gaza Strip, as seen from Ashkelon, in southern Israel, October 20, 2023. REUTERS/Amir Cohen

Israel’s Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from the Gaza Strip, as seen from Ashkelon, in southern Israel, October 20, 2023.
Courtesy: Amir Cohen | Reuters

The Iron Dome is designed to intercept short-range rockets and artillery shells. It has been a cornerstone of Israel’s defence strategy, boasting an interception success rate of approximately 90%1. However, the recent attack highlighted its limitations when faced with a high-density barrage. The system’s performance under such conditions raises questions about its capacity to handle simultaneous multi-front threats.

Netanyahu’s Response

In the wake of the attack, Prime Minister Netanyahu convened an emergency meeting with top military and intelligence officials. He emphasized the need for immediate action to bolster Israel’s defence capabilities and ensure the safety of its citizens. Netanyahu’s response included:

  • Increased Military Readiness: Deployment of additional troops and advanced defence systems to vulnerable areas.
  • Diplomatic Efforts: Engaging with international allies to garner support and condemn Hezbollah’s actions.
  • Public Assurance: Addressing the nation to reassure citizens of the government’s commitment to their security.

https://youtu.be/YZ1Fo_RfIcU?si=1IM5Al4jmfE6YNqt

Regional Implications

Hezbollah Rockets Overwhelm Iron Dome
Hezbollah Rockets Overwhelm Iron Dome

An excavator removes a charred car in Kiryat Bialik in the Haifa district of Israel following a Hezbollah attack [Jack Guez/AFP]

The attack and Israel’s subsequent response have significant implications for the region. It underscores the persistent threat posed by Hezbollah and the potential for further escalation. The incident also highlights the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and the ongoing struggle for dominance between Israel and its adversaries.

Origins and Early History

Key Events

Involvement of Neighboring Countries

Current Status

The conflict remains unresolved, with periodic escalations of violence. Key issues include the status of Jerusalem, Israeli settlements in the West Bank, security concerns, and the rights of Palestinian refugees12.

Comparison of weapon systems Iron Dome, Patriot (PAC-3) and THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense)

Iron Dome

 

An Iron Dome launcher fires an interceptor missile as rockets are fired from Gaza, in Ashkelon, Israel May 10, 2023.

An Iron Dome launcher fires an interceptor missile as rockets are fired from Gaza, in Ashkelon, Israel May 10, 2023.
Amir Cohen | Reuters
  • Purpose: Designed to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells.
  • Range: Effective against threats within a range of 4 to 70 kilometres.
  • Components: Includes detection and tracking radar, battle management and weapon control (BMC), and missile firing units.
  • Effectiveness: High success rate (around 90%) in intercepting short-range threats.
  • Deployment: Primarily used by Israel to protect against rocket attacks from groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

Patriot (PAC-3)

  • Purpose: Designed to intercept tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft.
  • Range: Effective against threats within a range of up to 160 kilometres.
  • Components: Includes AN/MPQ-53/65 radar sets, engagement control stations, and MIM-104 missiles.
  • Effectiveness: Proven in various conflicts, with a high success rate against various aerial threats.
  • Deployment: Widely used by the United States and its allies, including in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense)

  • Purpose: Designed to intercept short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase.
  • Range: Effective against threats within a range of up to 200 kilometres.
  • Components: Includes AN/TPY-2 radar, THAAD fire control and communication (TFCC), and interceptor missiles.
  • Effectiveness: High success rate in intercepting ballistic missiles at high altitudes, providing a layered defence capability.
  • Deployment: Used by the United States and deployed in strategic locations such as South Korea and the Middle East.

Comparison Summary

  • Iron Dome is best suited for short-range threats and is highly effective in urban defence scenarios.
  • Patriot offers a broader range of defence capabilities, including against aircraft and cruise missiles, making it versatile for various threat environments.
  • THAAD provides a high-altitude defence layer, particularly effective against ballistic missiles, complementing other systems like Patriot for a comprehensive missile defence strategy.

Each system has its strengths and is often used in conjunction with others to provide a multi-layered defence approach123.

Conclusion

The recent rocket attack by Hezbollah and the subsequent strain on the Iron Dome system has brought to light critical vulnerabilities in Israel’s defence strategy. As Prime Minister Netanyahu takes decisive action, the world watches closely, aware that the region’s stability hangs in the balance. The incident is a stark reminder of the ever-present threats and the need for continual advancements in defence technology.

The Iron Dome, Patriot, and THAAD systems are all advanced missile defence systems, but they serve different purposes and have distinct capabilities. Here’s a comparison of the three:

The Israel-Palestine conflict is a long-standing and complex issue with deep historical roots. Here’s a brief overview of its origins, key events, and the involvement of neighbouring countries:

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