U.S. Launches Retaliatory Strikes Against 85 Pro-Iranian Militias targets in Iraq and Syria

In response to a recent UAV attack that claimed the lives of three American soldiers and injured around 40 others, the United States initiated a series of airstrikes against pro-Iranian militias in Iraq and Syria last night. The U.S. Central Command confirmed the use of over 125 precision weapons in the strikes, targeting command and control centers, intelligence bases, rocket and missile warehouses, UAV facilities, and logistics warehouses associated with the pro-Iranian militias.

The U.S. response, involving several aircraft, including bombers from the U.S., struck more than 85 targets across seven facilities, with four in Syria and three in Iraq. The operation, aimed at preventing civilian casualties, was communicated to the Iraqi government before its execution, according to John Kirby, spokesperson for the National Security Council.

President Joe Biden issued a statement emphasizing that the U.S. is not seeking conflicts but warned those who might harm Americans that retaliation will continue. "Our response began today. It will continue at the chosen time and place," President Biden declared.

The strikes come in the wake of a UAV attack on U.S. soil, resulting in the death of three American soldiers. The retaliatory measures occurred shortly after President Biden participated in a ceremony honoring the fallen soldiers at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that this is just the beginning of the U.S. response, stating, "The president has directed further actions to hold accountable the Revolutionary Guards and the militias associated with their attacks on U.S. and coalition forces."

The international response to the airstrikes has been mixed. While the U.S. and Jordan collaborated on the attacks, the Iraqi army condemned the action as a violation of sovereignty, expressing concerns about potential "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region."

Reports indicate that the U.S. plans further actions, including cyber operations, against Iranian elements and targets in Syria and Iraq. President Biden has clarified that the goal is not regional war but a strong response to deter future attacks on American forces.

Iran, in response, warned of retaliation to any attacks and reportedly activated air defense systems on the border with Iraq. The situation remains tense as the U.S. anticipates an extended operation against Iranian targets outside of Iran, with officials suggesting a multi-week campaign.

As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely, mindful of the delicate balance between deterring aggression and avoiding a broader conflict in the already volatile Middle East.