In a devastating drone attack on a base in Jordan, three U.S. service members were killed and more than two dozen others were injured. The targeted base, situated near the border with Syria, was attacked by an Iranian militant group, according to President Biden. This incident follows a series of attacks on U.S. forces since October, with President Biden vowing a strong response to any party thinking of taking advantage of the situation.
The drone attack took place last night and is believed to have been carried out by an Iran-backed militia group operating in either Iraq or Syria. In response, the Biden administration has stated that there will be consequences, with President Biden issuing a statement saying, 'We know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq. We will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing.' This development has raised concerns of a potential escalation in the region.
There have been over 150 attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria since mid-October, coinciding with the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas. Expressing his outrage and sadness, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin declared that the U.S. will not tolerate attacks on American forces and will take all necessary actions to defend the United States, its troops, and its interests.
Retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg reflected on the current situation, referencing former President Trump's stance in 2020 following the elimination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. Kellogg recalled Trump's message that if an American is attacked, their life is forfeit, emphasizing the predictable nature of these attacks against U.S. forces. Meanwhile, Israel, America's closest ally in the Middle East, remains on high alert, aware that a direct U.S. response against Iran could provoke the Iranian proxy group, Hezbollah, to retaliate against Israel.
Senator Tom Cotton, a Republican, called for a strong response to these attacks, urging that any retaliation must be devastating and disproportional to deter Iran from future aggression. Cotton criticized President Biden for what he perceives as a history of appeasement and called for a departure from the policy of enriching Iran pursued during the Obama administration.
The loss of three U.S. service members and the continuing threat to American forces highlight the urgent need to address the presence and purpose of U.S. troops in the region. As questions arise about the strategy and objectives in this volatile area, the families of the fallen are in the thoughts and prayers of the nation, with gratitude extended for their service and sacrifice.
