The Pentagon announced on Sunday that the United States conducted two airstrikes in Syria against Iran and its affiliated groups. These strikes were in response to a series of attacks on American forces in Syria and Iraq. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the strikes targeted a training facility near Albu Kamal and a safe house near Mayadeen. President Joe Biden ordered the strikes, emphasizing the priority of U.S. personnel safety and the defense of American interests.
According to local sources, the airstrikes also targeted a camp operated by pro-Iranian militias in the western area of Albu Kamal, in Deir al Zor province. Another strike occurred near a bridge close to Mayadeen, which is near the Iraqi border and serves as a stronghold for pro-Iranian militias. These airstrikes mark the third such action since October 26, as the United States aims to suppress ongoing drone and rocket attacks against its troops in Syria and Iraq, which were triggered by the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Iran and its supporters argue that the United States bears responsibility for Israel’s war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is also backed by Iran. In recent weeks, Iran-backed forces have attacked U.S. and coalition troops at least 40 times in Iraq and Syria. As a result, 45 U.S. troops have suffered traumatic brain injuries or minor wounds.
The United States currently has 900 troops in Syria and an additional 2,500 in neighboring Iraq. Their mission is to advise and assist local forces in preventing the resurgence of the Islamic State, which previously seized significant portions of both countries but was subsequently defeated.
An anonymous U.S. official confirmed that the airstrikes took place within the past few hours and stated that a review is underway to determine the impact on casualties. Given the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict, there is growing concern that U.S. troops stationed at isolated bases could become targets.
To deter Iran and Iran-backed groups, the United States has deployed warships and fighter aircraft to the region since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7. This includes the presence of two aircraft carriers, and the number of troops added to the region is in the thousands.
RushHourDaily has reported that the U.S. military has implemented new measures to protect its forces in the Middle East amidst the increased attacks by suspected Iran-backed groups. These measures include heightened military patrols, restricted access to base facilities, and enhanced intelligence collection through drone and surveillance operations.
In conclusion, the United States conducted airstrikes in Syria against Iran and its affiliated groups in response to ongoing attacks on American forces. The safety of U.S. personnel and the defense of American interests remain top priorities. The situation is further complicated by the Israel-Hamas conflict, with concerns of its potential spread throughout the Middle East and the vulnerability of U.S. troops at isolated bases. The U.S. military has taken additional measures to protect its forces and is prepared to evacuate military families if necessary.
