WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced on Friday that the United States has launched retaliatory strikes on Iran-backed militia targets in Iraq and Syria. This military action comes in response to a drone strike last weekend that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers in Jordan.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision to initiate these strikes was aimed at facilities used by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and affiliated militias to conduct attacks against U.S. forces.
“Our response began today. It will continue at times and places of our choosing,” Biden stated, emphasizing that while the United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or elsewhere, it is prepared to defend its citizens and interests. “If you harm an American, we will respond,” he added, underlining the U.S. commitment to protecting its forces.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin provided further details, revealing that the U.S. military targeted seven facilities, hitting more than 85 targets in Iraq and Syria in the initial wave of strikes. “This is the start of our response,” Austin said, noting that President Biden has directed additional actions to hold the IRGC and affiliated militias accountable for their attacks on U.S. and Coalition Forces. Austin reiterated the U.S. stance on defending its personnel and interests against attacks.
The strikes were launched as President Biden, alongside Defense Secretary Austin and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Charles Brown, attended a ceremony at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware for the repatriation of the three fallen soldiers. The military action raises concerns about potential escalation in the region, especially with ongoing hostilities between Israel and the Hamas militant group, and continued aggression from Iran-backed militants.