The U.S. Military carried out targeted strikes in Syria against facilities used by Iran’s military and its affiliated terrorist groups. These strikes were in response to a series of attacks against U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed militia groups, beginning on October 17. These attacks resulted in injuries to 21 U.S. soldiers and one contractor’s unfortunate passing due to a heart attack during an attack, with 19 soldiers diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stated that the United States will not tolerate such attacks and will defend itself, its personnel, and its interests. The U.S. has no desire for further hostilities, but it is imperative that these Iranian-backed attacks cease. The strikes were narrowly tailored, solely in self-defense, aimed at safeguarding U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria.
It is important to note that these actions do not represent a shift in the U.S. approach to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The United States remains committed to urging all entities, whether state or non-state, to refrain from actions that could escalate into a broader regional conflict.
