US Forces Encounter Drone and Rocket Attacks in Iraq and Syria
Unanticipated incidents unfolded in Iraq and Syria on Thursday, 23 November, as US forces experienced a series of four separate attacks involving rockets and armed drones. The news of these assaults has reverberated globally, sparking surprise and concern among observers.
Unravelling the details of the attacks
Two locations in northeastern Syria became the targets of the first two attacks, involving a multitude of rockets and a one-way attack drone. The Ain Al-Asad airbase, situated west of Baghdad, and a base located near Erbil airport in northern Iraq, were the next to be hit, with several one-way drones launched at both sites.
In the aftermath, an entity referring to itself as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq asserted responsibility for the assaults on the aforementioned locations. Analysts have conjectured that this group may act as a front for multiple Iran-aligned Iraqi factions.
Context behind the attacks
The day before the attacks, US forces had targeted the Iran-aligned Kataeb Hezbollah armed group, located south of Baghdad, resulting in the death of eight members, as reported by the group known as KH. This use of force, seen as an infringement on sovereignty, elicited strong condemnation from the Iraqi government.
US officials, in their defence, stated that they had taken action against Iran-aligned factions in response to the increasing frequency of their attacks. These groups have been reportedly targeting US and international forces multiple times since 17 October, a mere ten days after the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Rising numbers and the Iran connection
A US military official disclosed to Reuters that there were a total of 36 attacks in Iraq and 37 in Syria on Thursday. The same source revealed that 56 US service members had sustained minor injuries, while one individual suffered serious harm. Despite these incidents, all affected personnel have resumed their duties.
While Iran has alleged that the groups involved in the attacks operate independently, the US has contested this assertion, maintaining that these factions are supported by Iran. The US currently retains troops in Iraq, along with an additional 2,500 personnel in neighbouring Syria, with a mission to advise and assist local forces in maintaining stability.
As we continue to gather more information on this unfolding story, we will ensure to keep our readers informed on any new developments. Stay connected with us for the latest updates.
