Three US Troops Killed, Dozens Injured in Drone Strike Linked to Iran
Three U.S. service members were killed and dozens may be wounded after an unmanned aerial drone attack on U.S. forces stationed in northeastern Jordan near the Syrian border, President Joe Biden and U.S. officials said on Sunday.
Biden Blames Iran-Backed Groups for the Attack
President Joe Biden stated that the attack on U.S. forces in Jordan was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq. While the facts are still being gathered, Biden emphasized that those responsible will be held accountable in a time and manner chosen by the United States.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin echoed Biden's statements, indicating that the U.S. will not tolerate such attacks and will take action against those responsible.
At least 34 personnel were evaluated for possible traumatic brain injury, and some wounded U.S. forces were medically evacuated from the base for further treatment.
Islamic Resistance in Iraq Claims Responsibility for Attacks
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella organization of hardline Iran-backed militant groups, claimed responsibility for the attack in Jordan. The group has also launched attacks on three bases, including one on the Jordan-Syria border.
This attack marks a significant escalation of the already tense situation in the Middle East, where the conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused widespread destruction and casualties.
Prior to this attack, U.S. forces had come under attack more than 150 times by Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria, resulting in casualties, including traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have targeted U.S. warships passing through Red Sea waters.
Republican Critics Seize Attack as Evidence of Biden's Failure to Confront Iran
Opponents of President Biden from the Republican Party have used this attack as evidence of his failure to confront Iran and its proxies effectively. Republican Senator Tom Cotton called for devastating military retaliation against Iran's terrorist forces, claiming that anything less would confirm Biden's cowardice.
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell also criticized Biden for his inaction, stating that it has emboldened the enemies of the United States in the Middle East.
This attack has further strained the already fragile situation in the region, with tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalating.
