Three US Army soldiers lost their lives, and over 30 service members sustained injuries in a drone attack on a small US outpost in Jordan.
The incident, attributed to Iran-backed militants, is the first instance of US troops being killed by enemy fire in the Middle East since the start of the Gaza war.
The drone strike targeted Tower 22 near the border with Syria.
President Joe Biden pledged to respond, stating that the attack was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.
The drone attack is a significant escalation, and the responsible militia group is still under investigation.
US Central Command confirmed three deaths and 25 injuries in the one-way drone attack. Biden emphasized the commitment to holding those responsible to account, expressing condolences and honoring the fallen service members during a church address in South Carolina.
The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of air defenses, as this marks the first known attack on Tower 22 since October 17. The US has previously taken retaliatory actions against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria.
The Biden administration faces criticism, particularly from Republicans, for what some perceive as a failure in deterring Iranian aggression. Calls for stronger responses, including strikes against Iranian targets, have been voiced by senators like Lindsey Graham and Roger Wicker.
Amid these tensions, US officials express the desire to prevent a regional war, emphasizing the goal of deterrence without escalating the conflict.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts, such as Israel’s campaign in Gaza against Hamas and actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
The killing of three Americans adds complexity to discussions about the future of the US military presence in Iraq, as talks between the US and Iraq are anticipated soon.
The region faces heightened tensions with multiple fronts in play.
