Iran-Backed Militias Blamed for Attack Near Syrian Border; Escalation Concerns Rise

In a somber moment at a Baptist church’s banquet hall in South Carolina, President Joe Biden announced that the U.S. would respond to an overnight drone strike in northeast Jordan, which resulted in the loss of three American troops and left dozens injured. The attack marked the first U.S. fatalities after a series of strikes by Iran-backed militias in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.

President Biden, on travel during the incident, requested a moment of silence, stating, “We had a tough day last night in the Middle East. We lost three brave souls in an attack on one of our bases, and we shall respond.”

Photo Credit: Jaquelyn Martin AP

Amidst the rising risk of military escalation in the region, U.S. officials are actively working to identify the precise group responsible for the attack. Though not conclusive, assessments suggest the involvement of one of several Iranian-backed groups.

In a written statement, President Biden affirmed, “The United States will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing.” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin echoed this sentiment, pledging, “We will take all necessary actions to defend the United States, our troops, and our interests.”

As the situation unfolds, concerns over potential further hostilities in the Middle East continue to mount.

Credit: AP