Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's request for US President Donald Trump to delay an attack on Iran has revealed a significant vulnerability in Israel's air defense system. Despite public assurances from the Israeli military about its readiness, Netanyahu privately expressed concerns about the country's ability to withstand a large-scale Iranian missile strike. This contradiction highlights that while Israel's technology is advanced and its recent defense efforts have been successful, the real challenge lies in maintaining a sufficient volume of missile interceptors, particularly Arrow interceptors, to counter future threats.

The ongoing efforts to replenish Israel's interceptor supply, including increased production following a deal with Germany, have not yet fully restored its defensive capabilities. This gap has left Israel feeling exposed, especially as Iran works to rebuild its missile arsenal. The situation raises questions about the credibility of Israel's deterrence and its ability to enforce red lines against Iran's growing ballistic missile program. As Jerusalem navigates these challenges, the revelation has cast doubt on the public narrative of Israel's preparedness and may influence future strategic decisions.