Hegseth Seeks $70B More Funding as Iran Deploys Air Defences During US Strikes

Iran’s military announced that it had activated air‑defence systems throughout Tehran on the night of the 11th day of U.S. missile strikes against Iranian targets. The move, reported by state media, was described as a precautionary measure to monitor and potentially intercept any aerial threats that could arise from the ongoing campaign. Tehran’s air‑defence network, which includes surface‑to‑air missile batteries and radar stations, was reportedly put on heightened alert status during the night.

The U.S. strikes, launched earlier in the month, targeted Iranian military facilities and command and control centers in the eastern province of Khuzestan. Iran has repeatedly condemned the attacks as a violation of international law and has warned that it will respond in kind if its sovereignty is further challenged. The activation of air‑defence assets in the capital is seen by analysts as part of a broader strategy to deter potential follow‑up strikes and to demonstrate readiness to defend key urban centres.

While no interceptions have been reported, the activation underscores the escalating tensions between the two countries. Iran’s decision to raise its air‑defence readiness is likely to influence the strategic calculations of both sides as the conflict continues to unfold.