COLUMBIA, S.C. - President Joe Biden declared on Sunday that the U.S. would respond forcefully following a deadly drone strike near the Jordan-Syria border that claimed the lives of three American troops and left dozens injured. The attack, which occurred at a logistics support base known as Tower 22, is attributed to Iran-backed militias.
President Biden, during a visit to South Carolina, expressed condolences for the fallen soldiers and asserted, "We shall respond." The incident marks the first instance of U.S. fatalities amid a series of strikes by Iranian-backed groups against American forces in the Middle East during the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The precise identification of the responsible group is under investigation, but U.S. officials lean towards Iranian-backed factions. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed that necessary actions would be taken to defend U.S. interests. In response to the looming threat, Iran-backed fighters in east Syria reportedly began evacuating their positions.
The drone struck the undisclosed Jordanian base, primarily used for the advise-and-assist mission for Jordanian forces. The casualties include three killed and over 34 injured, with the wounded being evacuated for further care. The targeted base plays a crucial logistical role for U.S. forces in Syria, particularly those stationed at al-Tanf.
Jordan, through its state-run Petra news agency, condemned the "terrorist attack" targeting U.S. troops, emphasizing its commitment to counter-terrorism along its borders. U.S. troops have long utilized Jordan as a strategic base, with around 3,000 American personnel typically stationed in the country.
Since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas war in October, Iranian-backed militias have launched numerous attacks on American military installations in Iraq and Syria. The latest incident in Jordan resulted in the first U.S. casualties during this period, prompting concerns of escalating tensions in the region.
As the Biden administration contemplates its response, lawmakers express varying opinions on the effectiveness of the current approach. Senator Jack Reed anticipates a deliberate and proportional response, while Republicans call for a substantial reset of Middle East policy, with some urging strikes on significant targets inside Iran as a deterrent. President Biden, briefed by top officials, called the attack "despicable" and vowed to continue the fight against terrorism.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of a volatile Middle East, with Syria still embroiled in civil war and Iran-backed forces maintaining a presence in the region. The international community watches closely as the U.S. navigates its response to this tragic incident.