US Military Launches Air Assault on Iranian-Backed Militias in Iraq and Syria
In a retaliatory move, the US military has conducted an air assault on multiple sites in Iraq and Syria that were being used by Iranian-backed militias and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. This action comes in response to a drone strike that killed three US troops in Jordan. President Joe Biden had previously warned of a “tiered response” to such attacks.
The strikes targeted more than 85 locations at seven different sites, including command centers, intelligence facilities, weapons storage areas, and other sites connected to the militias and the IRGC’s Quds Force. The operation involved the use of over 125 precision munitions delivered by various aircraft, including long-range bombers.
While it remains unclear what the next steps will be, the US strikes did not directly target Iran or senior leaders of the Revolutionary Guard Quds Force within Iran’s borders. The US aims to prevent further escalation of the conflict. Iran has denied any involvement in the attack in Jordan.
The recent statement from Kataeb Hezbollah, one of the main Iran-backed militias, announcing the suspension of attacks on American troops had no impact on the US administration’s plans. Another major Iran-backed group, Harakat al-Nujaba, has vowed to continue military operations against US troops.
The US has blamed the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of Iran-backed militias, for the attack in Jordan. However, Kataeb Hezbollah is considered a top suspect. These militias have posed a threat to US bases for years but intensified their assaults following Israel’s war with Hamas.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has emphasized the dangerous situation in the Middle East and stated that the US will take all necessary actions to defend its interests and respond as it sees fit. Since October 18, Iran-backed militia groups have launched 166 attacks on US military installations.
In addition to the air assault, the US has imposed new sanctions on firms in Iran and Hong Kong accused of assisting Iran in procuring technology for ballistic weapons and drones. Six Iranian officials have also been hit with sanctions for engaging in malicious cyber activities against critical infrastructure.
Overall, the US military’s air assault on Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria marks a significant escalation in response to attacks on US troops. The situation in the Middle East remains tense, and the US is prepared to defend its interests and respond accordingly.
