US Launches Airstrikes on Iranian-Linked Targets in Syria

The U.S. military has carried out airstrikes on two locations in eastern Syria that are linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps. The strikes were launched in retaliation for a series of drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region. The Biden administration aimed to strike Iranian-backed groups while avoiding a wider conflict in the region.

The precision strikes, conducted by two F-16 fighter jets near Boukamal, targeted weapons and ammunition storage areas connected to the IRGC. Although there were Iranian-aligned militia and IRGC personnel present, there is currently no information on casualties or damage. The sites were chosen because they stored munitions used in the attacks on U.S. bases and troops.

According to the Pentagon, there have been at least 19 attacks on U.S. bases and personnel in Iraq and Syria since October 17. In two of these assaults, which targeted al-Asad Airbase and al-Tanf Garrison, 21 U.S. personnel were injured. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the strikes were a response to ongoing attacks by Iranian-backed militia groups and were separate from Israel‘s conflict with Hamas.

The F-16 airstrikes are expected to impact the ability of Iranian proxy groups to continue targeting U.S. forces. The strikes were aimed at compelling Iran to direct the militia groups to cease their attacks. The Biden administration has not accused Iran of playing a direct role in the recent Hamas attack on Israel, but it is concerned about the possibility of the conflict escalating into a wider war.

While the U.S. does not seek a broader conflict, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that additional action will be taken to protect U.S. forces if Iranian proxy groups continue their attacks. The retaliatory strikes were expected, as officials have repeatedly stated that the U.S. would respond to attacks on its troops.

The recent attacks by Iranian-linked groups occurred after a deadly explosion at a Gaza hospital, which triggered protests in several Muslim nations. The U.S. has stated that its strikes are directly connected to the attacks on its troops and are not related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Retaliation against Iranian targets in Syria after attacks on U.S. bases is a routine response.

Previously, the U.S. conducted airstrikes in Syria in March after an Iranian-linked attack resulted in the death of a U.S. contractor. The American response is designed to be proportional and aims to deter attacks against U.S. personnel involved in the fight against the Islamic State group.

The Pentagon has increased air defenses in the region to protect U.S. forces, deploying Patriot missile systems, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, and additional fighter jets. About 900 troops have been deployed or are in the process of being sent to the Middle East region.