The US has experienced a significant increase in attacks on its bases in Iraq and Syria. Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh revealed that since October 17, there have been a staggering 46 attacks on American personnel, with 24 occurring in Iraq and 22 in Syria.
Four of these attacks came after the US targeted Iranian-backed groups in Syria on Wednesday.
“If these attacks continue against our personnel, we won’t hesitate at a time and place of our choosing to respond again,” Singh said Thursday.
These attacks have primarily involved the use of explosive drones and rockets, posing a serious threat to the safety and well-being of US troops.
Related: U.S. Launches Airstrike In Syria, Targeting Iran’s Revolutionary Guard
The attacks have not been without consequences, as a total of 56 US troops have been injured.
However, the majority of these injuries are minor, and all service members have since returned to duty, according to the Pentagon.
In response to the attacks, the US military has taken action against Iranian-backed groups and facilities. A recent airstrike conducted by the US targeted a major weapons facility in Syria used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its militants.
The ongoing conflict and the increasing frequency of attacks have sparked concerns among lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Republicans, in particular, have criticized the Biden administration for failing to prevent these attacks and called for a stronger response. Rep. Mike Rogers, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, emphasized the need for a clear message to terrorists, stating that attacks on US servicemembers and assets will not be tolerated.
The Nature of the Attacks
The attacks on US bases in Iraq and Syria have primarily involved the use of one-way drones, mortars, or rockets. Since October 17, there have been 38 separate attacks on bases housing US troops in the region.
Notably, two attacks on October 18 caused injuries to US personnel. One attack at al-Tanf in southern Syria involved two drones, one of which struck the base, injuring American troops [^2^]. The other attack at al-Asad air base in Iraq also involved two drones, one of which broke apart over the base, causing injuries to the troops inside.
Read: U.S. Unleashes Airstrikes On Iranian-Linked Sites In Eastern Syria
Potential Catastrophic Attack Averted
One particular attack on October 25 had the potential to be catastrophic for the US military. An explosives-filled drone landed on the roof of a building housing US troops in Erbil, Iraq.
Fortunately, the drone did not explode, averting a potential tragedy in which dozens of troops could have been injured or killed. This incident underscores the gravity of the threat faced by US service members stationed in the region.
US Response and Attribution of Responsibility
In response to the attacks, the US has conducted targeted strikes on Iranian-backed militia groups. These strikes have targeted ammunition and weapons storage facilities with direct ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its proxy groups.
While the US has not directly attributed the attacks to Iran, officials assert that Iran bears responsibility for funding, arming, equipping, and training these groups.
The US government has called on Iran to take specific action to direct its militias and proxies to stand down.
Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh emphasized the importance of containing the conflict to Israel and Hamas, ensuring it does not escalate further.
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