Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, the head of the U.S. European Command (EUCOM), has reportedly sent a letter to Pentagon officials warning that his command may soon lose the ability to sustain missile-defense operations in the region. Grynkewich, as commander of operations in Europe and the Mediterranean, is responsible for intercepting ballistic missiles aimed at Israel, particularly those launched from Iran and Houthi forces in Yemen. The warning, according to The Washington Post, highlights a growing strain on U.S. military resources.
In the letter, Grynkewich said that without a third U.S. Navy destroyer placed under his command, he might be forced to shift focus from Israel to defending the U.S. homeland. As of Friday, only two destroyers were operating in the region, with three still stationed at a naval base in Spain. The long deployments are said to be wearing down the vessels and depleting supplies of advanced missile interceptors.
The warning comes at a time when the U.S. has increased its naval presence near Iran since the collapse of a U.S.-Iran ceasefire in early July. Eleven destroyers and multiple warships, including aircraft carriers, are now stationed in the region to secure shipping lanes and deter further Iranian aggression. At the same time, Grynkewich’s command also remains on alert for potential missile threats from Russia to NATO allies, compounding the demand on U.S. forces.
Missile stockpiles have also drawn attention in recent months, as prolonged operations have significantly reduced the number of advanced interceptors available. The Pentagon is now reportedly concerned about its ability to continue defending Israel at the current level without replenishment or further reinforcement.