Seoul, March 11 — The United States has begun withdrawing its advanced missile defense system from South Korea in order to use it in the ongoing conflict against Iran, a move that has raised concerns about Washington’s security commitments in the region.
According to a report by the British newspaper The Guardian, the United States is relocating its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system from South Korea to the Middle East. In addition to THAAD, several other military assets are also being sent to the region.
Reports suggest that discussions are underway to deploy additional Patriot missile system batteries to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as part of efforts to strengthen defenses amid the escalating conflict with Iran.
Security analysts warn that the shift of US military resources away from East Asia could increase risks related to North Korea and tensions surrounding Taiwan. They fear that Pyongyang could take advantage of the situation to intensify military pressure.
Similar concerns have also been raised in Japan after reports that US warships stationed in the country are being redeployed to support operations linked to the Iran conflict.
However, Lee Jae‑myung, the president of South Korea, sought to reassure the public,
stating that the country’s own defense capabilities remain strong. He said the withdrawal of the THAAD system would not create any immediate gap in the country’s ability to respond to threats from North Korea.
The decision reflects Washington’s growing military focus on the Middle East as tensions with Iran continue to escalate.
