Transcript of US sending anti-missile defense system to Israel

Overseas now, and word tonight that the US is sending an anti-missile defense system to Israel and deploying 100 US troops to operate it. The system is intended to help Israel fend off any future attacks from Iran. Let's bring in ABC's Matt Gutman. He's live from Tel Aviv tonight. Matt, what more are you learning about this new development?

Rachel, the Pentagon is saying a clear message with this deployment that it's working in lockstep with Israel to help it fend off any additional possible Iranian ballistic missile strike, and that it's working with Israel to help it calibrate its response to that historic ballistic missile strike from October first. Over 180 bus-sized missiles fired into Israel, and more of those missiles penetrating Israel's air defenses than many here expected one That's the reason that Israel has valid such a ferocious response. Now, I'm told it'll be at least four days before that missile battery is operational. Remember, Rachel, those 100 troops are just a fraction of the total of 40,000 US troops operating in the Middle East right now. But this is the first time that US troops will be on the ground and operational in Israel since just after October seventh. It's happening as this conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is intensifying. Hezbollah launching more attacks today than in any day since the war began, including a drone attack just about 30 miles from where we are right now, in which Israel says about 70 people were wounded, Rachel.

As you reported, Matt, this will be the first time that US troops will be on the ground and operational in Israel in months. Matt, thank you for your reporting.