US Conducts Airstrike On Iran-Backed Militia In Syria
US Conducts Airstrike On Iran-Backed Militia In Syria...
The United States carried out an airstrike targeting an Iran-backed militia in eastern Syria early Tuesday, according to Pentagon officials. The operation comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over recent attacks on US forces in the region.
Defense Department spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed the strike targeted facilities used by Kataib Hezbollah, an Iraqi militia group backed by Iran. The action was described as "defensive" following multiple drone and rocket attacks against American personnel in Iraq and Syria last week.
Social media reports from Syria showed explosions near the town of Al-Bukamal, a known transit point for Iranian weapons shipments. Local monitoring groups reported at least eight militia members killed in the strike, though US officials have not confirmed casualty figures.
The operation marks the first known US military action against Iranian proxies since February 2024. It follows warnings from President Biden that attacks on American troops "would not go unanswered." The White House has not yet issued a statement on today's strike.
Iran's foreign ministry condemned the attack, calling it "a violation of Syria's sovereignty." The development comes as indirect nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran remain stalled. Oil prices rose nearly 2% in early trading following news of the strike.
Pentagon officials emphasized the strike was narrowly targeted and not an escalation against Iran itself. However, analysts warn the action could trigger further retaliation from Iranian proxy groups across the region. The US maintains about 900 troops in Syria as part of ongoing counter-ISIS operations.
Congressional leaders received briefings on the operation Tuesday morning. Some progressive Democrats expressed concern about potential escalation, while Republicans largely supported the move. The strike is trending online as Americans search for clarity about potential broader conflict.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is scheduled to address reporters later today. The Pentagon says it will continue monitoring the situation and remains prepared to defend US forces in the region.
