- U.S. officials approve strikes on targets in Iraq and Syria in response to recent attacks on American forces in the region.
- U.S. service members killed in a drone attack, prompting Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to state that the U.S. will defend its interests and people.
- Iran-backed groups have increased attacks on U.S. and Israeli-linked entities, raising concerns about the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Additional Coverage:
U.S. officials have given approval for a series of strikes against targets in Iraq and Syria, including Iranian personnel and facilities, in response to recent drone and rocket attacks on U.S. forces in the region. The strikes come after three U.S. service members were killed in a drone attack at the Tower 22 base near the Syrian border in Jordan. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the U.S. will not tolerate attacks on American troops and will take necessary actions to defend U.S. interests and people. Weather conditions will influence the timing of the strikes to ensure minimal civilian casualties.
There have been no new attacks on U.S. troops in the region since the Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah announced a suspension of military operations against American forces. However, U.S. officials have indicated that the group’s suspension will not delay retaliatory strikes. Iran has consistently denied responsibility for the attacks and warned against strikes on Iranian territory or personnel, claiming it would escalate tensions. The U.S. aims to hold the responsible parties accountable without escalating the conflict further.
Various Iran-backed groups in the Middle East have increased attacks on U.S. and Israeli-linked entities, particularly during Israel’s war with Hamas. Iran supports groups like the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon, who have targeted Western interests in support of the Palestinian cause. The U.S. shot down a drone over the Gulf of Aden and destroyed a Houthi explosive sea drone in the Red Sea. Additionally, two anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched by the Houthis but did not hit a cargo ship in the Red Sea.