The United States has conducted a series of strikes against targets affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in eastern Syria, according to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The decision to carry out the strikes was made by President Joe Biden as a response to ongoing attacks on U.S. forces in the region.
Late on Sunday night, the U.S. targeted a training facility and a safe house near the cities of Abu Kamal and Mayadin. These strikes mark the third time in three weeks that the U.S. has taken such action. The United States holds Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps responsible for the repeated rocket and drone attacks against facilities housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon officials have reported at least 46 attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria since October 17, resulting in injuries to at least 56 troops. These injuries include both traumatic brain injuries and minor injuries.
Defense Secretary Austin emphasized that the safety of U.S. personnel is of utmost importance to President Biden. The strikes were carried out as a clear message that the United States will defend itself, its personnel, and its interests.
Prior to the recent strikes, the U.S. conducted similar actions on October 26, targeting two facilities in eastern Syria connected to Iran’s IRGC and affiliated groups. These strikes focused on a weapons storage facility and an ammunition storage facility.
Despite the U.S. attempting to deter Iran through these strikes and an increased military presence in the region, attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria have persisted. The United States has also sought to separate the conflict in Gaza from the rest of the region, maintaining a balanced approach.
To reinforce deterrence efforts, the U.S. has deployed two carrier strike groups, an amphibious ready group, and additional air defense systems to the Middle East. These actions are intended to send a strong message to Iran.
