In a decisive response to the tragic deaths of three U.S. service members in Jordan, the United States has launched a series of retaliatory airstrikes across the Middle East. The operation, confirmed by a U.S. Defense official to Fox News, targeted Syrian locations using a combination of manned and unmanned aircraft. The strikes specifically focused on command and control headquarters of the Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and affiliated militia groups.
The military action comes after an attack on a U.S. base in northeastern Jordan last Sunday, which resulted in the loss of three American lives. President Joe Biden, having attended the dignified transfer of the fallen soldiers at Dover Air Force Base, issued a stern warning in a statement, “If you harm an American, we will respond.” He detailed that the attack was carried out by militant groups backed by the IRGC and that the U.S. had targeted facilities used by these groups to attack U.S. forces.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) revealed that the airstrikes began at 4 p.m. EST on February 2, targeting over 85 facilities in Iraq and Syria. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reiterated the President’s message, emphasizing that the United States does not seek conflict but will not tolerate attacks on American forces.
The Pentagon used a variety of aircraft, including two B1-B bombers, and over 125 precision munitions in the strikes. The targets included operations centers, intelligence facilities, and weapon storage sites, all carefully chosen to minimize civilian casualties and based on evidence of their involvement in attacks against U.S. troops. The Iraqi government was notified prior to the operation.
This military response underscores the U.S.’s commitment to defending its personnel and interests in the region, with operations beginning but not concluding on February 2. As tensions persist, the U.S. remains prepared to take further necessary actions to address threats and ensure the safety of its service members.