Former President Trump emphasized the urgent need for a U.S. missile defense system akin to Israel's Iron Dome, calling for swift action on the project. During a Florida Republican dinner, Trump praised newly appointed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, highlighting his role in leading this initiative. Trump confirmed he signed an executive order related to the Iron Dome while en route to the event.
Expressing confidence in Hegseth's capabilities, Trump stressed the importance of immediately commencing the development of this advanced defense system to protect American citizens. He noted that while the U.S. provides defense for other nations, it lacks comparable protection for itself. Trump drew a parallel to President Reagan's interest in such a system during the Cold War, attributing the lack of progress then to technological limitations. He contrasted this with the advanced technology available today, referencing Israel's successful Iron Dome system as an example.
The Pentagon confirmed that the development of this defense shield is among Hegseth's top priorities, along with addressing the reinstatement of troops discharged due to COVID-19 vaccination mandates. This echoes Trump's previous statements about the Iron Dome project during his inaugural ball and on the 2024 campaign trail, where he underscored the system's domestic production.
Trump believes that the United States deserves this level of protection and insists that all components will be manufactured within the country. He further emphasized his commitment to ensuring the U.S. maintains the world's most formidable military force.
Original reporting contributed by Morgan Phillips of Fox News Digital.
