Three US Army soldiers have been killed and over 30 injured in a drone attack at a US outpost in Jordan, attributed to Iran-backed militants. This marks a significant escalation in Middle Eastern tensions. President Joe Biden pledged a response, while Iran has denied involvement. The attack complicates an already volatile situation, with ongoing conflicts in the region and debates over US military presence.
by Fatima Abass
In a shocking development, three US Army soldiers have been tragically killed, and more than 30 others injured in a drone strike on a US military outpost in Jordan. This incident, confirmed by US Central Command, marks a significant escalation in the Middle East, particularly as it’s the first reported death of US troops due to enemy action in the region since the beginning of the Gaza war.
The attack, which occurred at Tower 22 near the Jordan-Syria border, has been attributed to Iran-backed militants. The drone reportedly originated from Syria, heightening the tensions between the US and Iran-backed forces in the region. President Joe Biden, speaking in South Carolina, vowed a decisive response to hold those responsible accountable. His administration is facing increasing pressure to act, amid criticisms of its current deterrence strategies.
Iran’s outright denial of involvement adds complexity to the situation. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, emphasized that regional resistance groups act independently of Iran, suggesting an aim to avoid escalation. However, Tehran’s disavowal comes amidst claims of responsibility by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias, for attacks along the Jordan-Syria border.
The aftermath of the attack has seen a surge in wounded service members, with symptoms consistent with traumatic brain injury, indicating the attack’s severity. The US has responded with retaliatory actions against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria, reflecting the ongoing regional power struggle.
This incident underscores the volatility of the Middle East, where the US and its allies are engaged in a multifaceted battle against terrorism. With the Biden administration balancing acts of retaliation with efforts to prevent regional war, the future of US military presence and strategy in the Middle East remains a subject of intense debate and strategic calculation.
(Associated Medias | FAD) – All rights reserved.