U.S. Conducts Airstrikes Against Iran-Backed Groups in Syria in Response to Attacks

In response to a growing number of attacks on bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, the U.S. military has conducted airstrikes on two locations in eastern Syria. The strikes targeted a training location and a weapons facility, both associated with Iranian-backed groups, including Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that the President’s top priority is the safety of U.S. personnel, and these actions were taken to assert the United States’ commitment to defending itself, its interests, and its personnel.

This marks the third retaliatory strike by the U.S. in just over two weeks against militants responsible for numerous attacks in the region. The attacks have been primarily orchestrated by groups operating under the umbrella of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, with nearly 50 incidents reported since October 17. The Pentagon stated that approximately 56 U.S. personnel have been injured in these attacks in Syria and Iraq, with injuries ranging from traumatic brain injuries to other minor wounds. All injured personnel have returned to duty.