"In accordance with our ironclad commitment to Israel’s security, U.S. forces in the region are currently defending against Iranian-launched missiles targeting Israel," the official said. "Our forces remain postured to provide additional defensive support and to protect U.S. forces operating in the region."

The barrage of more than 180 missiles Tuesday left only scattered damage but was seen as a major provocation in an increasingly tense moment for the region.

The Biden administration is seeking to align its position with Israel on any potential response to Iran's attack but also recognizes the Middle East is on a "knife's edge" and a broader escalation could imperil both Israeli and U.