US warplane strikes Iranian-backed Militia in retaliatory action
A US warplane carried out a strike against Iranian-backed militia forces in Iraq. The Pentagon announced the operation in response to a short-range ballistic missile attack on the Al-Asad Airbase by Iran-backed militias targeting US and coalition forces.
This marks the first time the US has targeted Iranian proxy forces in Iraq since recent strikes on Tehran-linked sites in Syria.
Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder confirmed the attack, revealing that it resulted in eight injuries and some infrastructure damage. Following the missile assault, a US military AC-130 aircraft in the vicinity conducted a self-defense strike against an Iranian-backed militia vehicle and personnel involved in the attack, resulting in several enemy casualties.
The surge in attacks on American troops is reportedly linked to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Israel’s response to a cross-border attack by Hamas has led to widespread regional anger, with the Israeli campaign cited as justification for attacks on American personnel in Iraq and Syria.
Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh disclosed that US forces have faced approximately 66 attacks since October 17, with the latest strike in Iraq being a notable departure from previous responses limited to Syria. Singh explained that the AC-130 was able to pinpoint the origin of the ballistic missile attack and subsequently tracked the militants in their vehicle.
This development underscores a shift in the US approach, as until now, strikes were conducted primarily in Syria to avoid escalating political tensions in Iraq, where Iran holds substantial influence. The strike, utilizing a specific munition, represents a significant development in the ongoing series of attacks that commenced on October 17.
A source from the Hashed al-Shaabi, also known as Popular Mobilization Forces, confirmed an attack on a vehicle that resulted in one fighter’s death and three others wounded. The strike targeted a pro-Iranian group’s convoy in Abu Ghraib, west of Baghdad. The Islamic resistance in Iraq claimed one of its fighters was killed, with his funeral drawing hundreds of Hashed al-Shaabi fighters.
As tensions escalate, the situation highlights the complex dynamics in the region, involving the US, Iran-backed militias, and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
