On Monday, a suspected rocket attack targeted US and coalition forces at Al-Asad Airbase in Iraq, resulting in injuries to several US personnel. The attack has raised concerns amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The US defense official confirmed the incident, stating that initial reports indicate injuries to American personnel. A post-attack damage assessment is currently underway at the airbase.
This attack comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with the US on alert for potential Iranian retaliation following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon have also been involved in recent escalations.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently deployed additional military assets to the Middle East, including a carrier strike group and fighter squadron, in response to the volatile situation.
While the perpetrators of the rocket attack remain unidentified, US officials have historically attributed such incidents in Iraq and Syria to Iran-backed militia groups. Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh previously linked similar attacks to Iranian-supported militias.
Between October and January, over 150 attacks targeted US personnel in the region. Following the deaths of three American troops in a drone attack, the US responded by striking multiple targets across different locations.
President Biden has emphasized that the US does not seek conflict but will retaliate against any harm to American personnel. The situation remains fluid as authorities investigate the recent attack at Al-Asad Airbase.
