In a significant military move, the Pentagon executed a robust operation in the Middle East on Friday.
This operation involved two bombers flying from the U.S. to strike sites associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
The strikes unfolded shortly after President Joe Biden attended the dignified transfer ceremony for three U.S. troops killed in a drone attack in Jordan.
President’s Response and Future Actions
President Biden addressed the nation, indicating that the military response had commenced and hinting at the possibility of more displays of military might in the future.
He expressed condolences for the three soldiers killed in the drone attack and explained that the subsequent strikes targeted facilities in Iraq and Syria used by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and affiliated militias to attack U.S. forces.
Military Operation Details
The U.S. military, under the direction of President Biden, struck 85 targets in Iraq and Syria.
The operation utilized B-1 aircraft dispatched from within the continental United States. Lt. Gen. Arthur Sims, director for operations for the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, mentioned that the strikes were meticulously planned based on favorable weather conditions.
The targets were chosen to impact the aggressors’ ability to conduct future strikes against Americans.
White House’s Position and Hope for De-escalation
The White House emphasized that the United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else globally.
Despite concerns about the potential expansion of hostilities, the administration made it clear that if Americans are harmed, the U.S. will respond.
National security spokesman John Kirby assured that the selected targets were carefully chosen to avoid civilian casualties.
Background and Context
The military action followed a drone strike in Jordan, where three U.S. soldiers lost their lives. The perpetrators were linked to Iran-backed militias.
The strikes aimed to retaliate for the attack on the Tower 22 base near Jordan’s border with Syria and Iraq.
Sgt. William Jerome Rivers, Specialist Kennedy Ladon Sanders, and Specialist Breonna Moffett were killed in the initial attack, prompting President Biden’s swift response.
Ongoing Situation and Future Plans
As tensions persist in the Middle East, the U.S. government has asserted its commitment to ensuring the safety of American personnel.
President Biden’s statement indicated that the military responses had begun and would continue at times and places chosen by the United States.
The administration hopes to convey a strong message that attacks on U.S. troops will not be tolerated.
The situation remains fluid, and the U.S. government has not disclosed specific details about future actions.
The response to the drone strike is described as “tiered,” suggesting potential multiple actions over a period of time.
The recent suspension of attacks on American troops by one of the main Iran-backed militias, Kataeb Hezbollah, did not alter the administration’s plans for retaliation.
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