The United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq and Syria targeting more than 85 locations associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and the militias it supports. These strikes were a response to a deadly attack on American troops. The use of long-range B-1 bombers from the United States was a significant part of this operation. The strikes have intensified the ongoing conflict in the region and are expected to be followed by further military operations. Iraq and Syria have protested against these strikes, with casualties reported on both sides.
The conflict in the region has been escalating, with recent hostilities between Israel and Hamas. The tensions further increased after the militant Palestinian group launched an assault on Israel. Iran, backing Hamas, has been careful to stay out of direct involvement in the conflict. However, it supports various groups that have entered the fray from Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq, and Syria. These groups form the so-called ‘Axis of Resistance,’ which opposes Israel and U.S. interests.
The United States’ decision to conduct these airstrikes has been met with criticism and concerns. Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson stated that it is a strategic mistake that will only lead to increased tension and instability. Iraq summoned the U.S. charge d’affaires in Baghdad to deliver a formal protest, while the Popular Mobilization Forces claimed casualties among their members and civilians. Syria reported the death of individuals guarding the targeted locations.
U.S. Lieutenant General Douglas Sims, the director of the Joint Staff, stated that the strikes appeared to be successful and caused large secondary explosions. The Pentagon, however, has clarified that it does not seek war with Iran, and it believes Tehran shares the same sentiment. Nevertheless, pressure from Republicans on President Joe Biden to take more direct action against Iran has been mounting.
The airstrikes have also raised concerns about the coordination and impact on civilian areas. Iraq criticized the U.S., accusing it of deception in claiming coordination with Iraq before the strikes. The U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin mentioned that these strikes are just the start of their response, signaling potential future actions against the IRGC and its affiliates. President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran expressed that his country will not initiate a war but will respond strongly to any form of bullying.
Iran’s ambassador in Damascus denied that Iran-linked targets were hit and instead claimed that Syria’s civil infrastructure was the focus. Hamas criticized the U.S., stating that it was adding fuel to the fire. Despite this, the United Kingdom called the United States its steadfast ally and supported its right to respond to attacks. Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski described the U.S. strikes as a consequence of Iranian proxies playing with fire.
The U.S. military reported that the strikes targeted command and control centers, rocket and missile storage facilities, drone storage facilities, logistics, and munition supply chain facilities. Local sources in Iraq reported widespread damage and casualties in the Sikak Neighborhood area. The United States has faced over 160 attacks in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan since the conflict escalated, leading to several retaliatory actions.
President Biden emphasized that these strikes are part of their response, indicating that there may be more to come. However, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee criticized the administration for not imposing a higher cost on Iran and for taking too long to respond.
Iranian advisers continue to assist armed groups in Iraq and Syria, where the United States has stationed troops. Despite the airstrikes, the Pentagon has made it clear that it does not seek war with Iran. However, the conflict and involvement of Iranian proxies in the region remain a concern. The ongoing situation raises questions about stability and the potential for further escalation.
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