US Launches Air Strikes on Iranian-backed Militias in Iraq and Syria, President Biden Issues Warning

Date: February 3, 2024

In response to a drone attack at Tower 22 that claimed the lives of three US soldiers, President Joe Biden has issued a stern warning, stating that if militants harm an American, the US will respond. The warning comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, including Red Sea attacks by Houthi militants and various militia attacks, partly fueled by Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza.

The United States military carried out air strikes on dozens of sites in Iraq and Syria, targeting locations allegedly used by Iran-backed militias and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The attack, seen as part of a “tiered response,” hit more than 85 targets across seven locations, including command and control headquarters, intelligence centers, and storage sites. President Biden emphasized that this response would not be a one-time event but a sustained effort over time.

As of January 30, Iran-backed militia groups had launched 166 attacks on US military installations, with the recent incident in Jordan adding to the rising tensions. President Biden’s warning signals a commitment to protecting American interests in the region, with the possibility of further actions in response to threats. Meanwhile, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi reiterated Tehran’s stance of not initiating a war but promising a strong response if provoked by external forces.