Staff Reports
In an escalation of attacks on U.S. troops, Iran-controlled Shiite militias in Iraq have claimed responsibility for rocket and drone attacks on two bases in Syria and Iraq. The Pentagon confirmed the attack on the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, Erbil, but said there were no casualties, only minor damage to infrastructure. It’s clear that Iran and its proxies are growing bolder in their aggression towards American personnel.
Iran-Controlled Militias Expand Attacks on U.S. Troops to Iraqi Kurdistan https://t.co/NSEoMDawZA
— Sam Collins (@SamTexan1986) October 28, 2023
This latest attack comes as no surprise, considering Iran’s long history of supporting and coordinating attacks on U.S. forces in the region. The fact that these militias feel emboldened enough to openly claim responsibility for their actions is a testament to the lack of consequences they have faced thus far.
It’s worth noting that the militias responsible for these attacks are closely tied to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, a group that the U.S. has designated as a terrorist organization. This further underscores the need for the Biden administration to take swift and decisive action against Iran and its proxies.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s plea to the Iraqi Prime Minister to “maintain security” and pursue those behind the attacks is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether the Iraqi military will actually take action. So far, there is no evidence that they have engaged the militias or made any arrests.
In response to these continued attacks, the U.S. has carried out “self-defense strikes” against facilities in Syria controlled by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and its militia proxies. These strikes targeted weapon and ammunition storage areas that were linked to the attacks on American personnel.
While these strikes are a necessary response to protect our forces, it’s clear that more needs to be done to deter Iran and its proxies from further aggression. The Biden administration must show strength and resolve in dealing with this threat and make it clear that attacks on U.S. troops will not be tolerated.
Overall, these attacks highlight the ongoing threat posed by Iranian-backed militias in the region and the urgent need for a strong and decisive response. The safety of our troops is paramount, and it is imperative that we take the necessary steps to protect them from these dangerous and brazen attacks.
