Last week, a series of drone attacks on American bases in Syria and Iraq left at least two dozen United States military personnel injured, as reported by U.S. Central Command.
Iranian-Backed Groups Suspected in the Attacks
In a news reported by The Washington Examiner, in October 24, 2023, the situation unfolded with two separate drone attacks in Syria and Iraq, where twenty injuries were reported. The U.S. successfully intercepted one of the drones. Later on the same day, four additional personnel were injured in two distinct drone attacks targeting U.S. and coalition forces stationed at the al Asad base in western Iraq, according to CENTCOM.
The attacks in Iraq were initially announced by CENTCOM without specifying the number of injuries. Although the attack drones were intercepted in Iraq, debris from one of the drones caused damage to a hangar housing a small aircraft, as reported by CENTCOM. Fortunately, all injured personnel in both Syria and Iraq were able to return to their duties on the same day.
During a press briefing, Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, indicated that the groups behind these attacks in Syria and Iraq are believed to be supported by the Iranian regime. He also voiced concerns about the potential for further escalation against U.S. forces and personnel in the region.
READ ALSO: Federal Arrest Warrants Drive Mississippi Multi-Agency Operation Targeting Criminal Activities
Escalation Amidst Ongoing Middle East Tensions
According to the report released by CNN, Ryder’s statements come in the wake of a total of at least 13 attacks against U.S. bases in and coalition forces in Syria and Iraq from October 17 to 24. While a complete injury count has not been officially reported, these incidents occur at a time when tensions are already running high in different parts of the Middle East.
This unrest is largely attributed to the ongoing war between Israel and the terrorist organization Hamas, which launched a surprise attack against Israel on October 7, resulting in a significant death toll. As these incidents unfold, the U.S. bases in Syria and Iraq remains vigilant in defending its forces and interests abroad.
READ ALSO: Lawyer Faces Charges After Embezzling A Huge Sum Of Money From His Client In Kalamazoo Michigan