Middle-East: US Launches Airstrikes On Iran-Linked Targets In Syria, Retaliates To Attacks On Its Troops

In response to a series of drone and missile attacks against American bases and personnel in the region, the Pentagon announced that the US military conducted airstrikes on two sites in eastern Syria connected to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps. These airstrikes were carried out early Friday (27 October).

The Biden administration is determined to maintain a delicate balance with its strikes in the US. They aim to target Iranian-backed groups suspected of targeting the US strongly enough to deter future aggression, which may be influenced by Israel's war against Hamas. However, they also strive to prevent further escalation in the region and avoid provoking a wider conflict.

Since 17 October, the Pentagon has reported a total of 12 attacks on US bases and personnel in Iraq, as well as four attacks in Syria. Among these incidents, two assaults utilised drones to target the al-Asad Airbase in Iraq and the al-Tanf Garrison in Syria, resulting in injuries to 21 US personnel, according to Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced that precision self-defense strikes have been carried out in response to a series of ongoing attacks against US personnel in Iraq and Syria. These attacks, which have been mostly unsuccessful, were perpetrated by Iranian-backed militia groups and have been occurring since October 17.

President Joe Biden ordered targeted strikes in order to send a strong message that the United States will not tolerate attacks and will protect its personnel and interests. These strikes were conducted separately from Israel's conflict with Hamas, Hindustan Times reported.

Austin emphasised that the United States is not looking for a wider conflict. However, he made it clear that if Iranian proxy groups persist in their actions, the US will not hesitate to take further measures to safeguard its forces.

According to the Pentagon, all US personnel injured in the militant attacks sustained minor injuries and were able to resume their duties. Unfortunately, a contractor tragically suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away while seeking shelter from a potential drone attack.

It was expected that there would be retaliatory strikes. Both the Pentagon and the White House have been clear in stating that the US would respond, as reiterated by Ryder on Thursday, emphasising that it would be done on their terms.

During a Pentagon briefing earlier in the day, he said, “I think we’ve been crystal clear that we maintain the inherent right of defending our troops and we will take all necessary measures to protect our forces and our interests overseas.”

In response to a tragic explosion at a Gaza hospital, protests erupted in several Muslim nations, as Iranian-linked groups carried out a series of strikes.