United States (US) forces have conducted targeted airstrikes against Iranian-backed militia facilities in eastern Syria, the US Department of Defense (DoD) has announced.
The DoD stated that these strikes were a measure of self-defense following more than a dozen rocket and drone attacks on US bases in the region since October 17, 2023.
A total of 21 US forces have suffered minor injuries, mostly traumatic brain injuries, from the attacks led by Iranian-backed forces. However, in one instance, a US citizen contractor died from a cardiac arrest while taking cover.
“The President has no higher priority than the safety of US personnel, and he directed today’s action to make clear that the United States will not tolerate such attacks and will defend itself, its personnel and its interests,” the US DoD said in a statement commenting the US airstrikes.
The strikes were executed in the early hours of October 27, 2023, near Abu Kamal, a strategic border town adjoining Iraq. Deploying two F-16 fighter jets armed with precision munitions, the US targeted weapons and ammunition storage facilities utilized by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and affiliated groups.
In the wake of these strikes, the US has also bolstered its military presence in the region, deploying additional troops, warships and fighter aircraft, including two aircraft carriers, in a bid to deter further aggression by Iran and its affiliates.
“I want to emphasize that the United States does not seek conflict, nor do we desire further hostilities; however, the Iran-backed attacks against US forces are unacceptable and must cease,” Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said during a press briefing, adding: “We are prepared to take further measures to protect our people if necessary.”
