US Conducts Major Airstrikes on Iranian-Backed Militias in Iraq and Syria
The United States has launched a series of major airstrikes on Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria, targeting 85 locations across seven different areas. The strikes were carried out in response to a drone attack by Iran-backed militants on a US military outpost in Jordan, which resulted in the deaths of three US service members and injured over 40 others. President Joe Biden stated that these military responses will continue as necessary.
The airstrikes were more significant than previous attacks on Iranian-backed militias, as they targeted command and control operations, intelligence centers, rockets and missiles, unmanned aerial vehicle storages, and logistics and munition supply chain facilities. The goal of these strikes is to deter further attacks on US troops while avoiding a full-scale conflict with Iran.
The US Central Command confirmed that the airstrikes were successful and targeted Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and affiliated militia groups. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that these strikes are just the beginning of the US response.
However, there are concerns about civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. The Syrian military claimed that the strikes killed civilians and soldiers and caused significant damage. The exact number and nature of the casualties cannot be independently verified. Iraq also reported casualties, with at least 16 people killed, including civilians, and 25 others injured. The strikes targeted facilities used by the Iranian-linked al Hashd al Shabi, or Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), in the city of Al-Qaim.
Both Iraq and Syria condemned the US attacks as violations of their sovereignty that could escalate regional conflict. The mayor of Al-Qaim confirmed that the strikes hit three houses used as weapon warehouses by the PMU. Syria warned that these strikes would further fuel the conflict in the Middle East and expressed concern about the UN Security Council’s inaction.
Iran also criticized the strikes, considering them a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The country warned that these actions would only escalate tensions and lead to instability in the region.
President Biden has faced pressure to respond to the deaths of US soldiers and put an end to militia attacks. However, the administration has made it clear that they do not seek a wider conflict with Iran or in the Middle East. The US will focus on targets outside of Iran and ensure a proportionate response.
The US military has been targeting Iranian proxies’ weapons depots in Iraq and Syria since October, but these strikes have not deterred the militants. Iran has been supporting regional proxy groups to expand its influence in the Middle East and pressure the United States. Sunday’s drone attack marked a significant escalation that required a forceful response.
While the US informed the Iraqi government of its plans, there was no communication with Iran regarding the killing of the US soldiers. Iran has repeatedly stated that it does not seek conflict but will respond strongly to any aggression.
There have been mixed messages from the militias involved. Kataib Hezbollah announced the suspension of its military operations against US forces, while the leader of the Al-Nujaba militant group stated that they would continue to attack US targets.
These airstrikes come at a crucial time as negotiations are underway for a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The situation remains tense, and details of the deal are still being worked out.
The US airstrikes on Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria demonstrate a strong response to attacks on US troops in the region. While concerns about civilian casualties and infrastructure damage remain, the US is committed to deterring further attacks while avoiding a full-scale conflict with Iran. The situation in the Middle East remains volatile, with ongoing negotiations and tensions between various parties.
