U.S. Airstrikes in Iraq Leave 10 Iraqi Security Personnel Injured Following Drone Attack
Baghdad, Monday 25 December 2023 – In the wake of a drone attack blamed on Iran-backed forces, the United States launched airstrikes in Iraq, targeting three sites used by Kataeb Hezbollah and other Iran-affiliated groups, according to a statement from the White House. The strikes were ordered by U.S. President Joe Biden, with the goal of addressing the escalating threat posed by these groups.
Local media outlet Al Hadath reported on Tuesday that ten Iraqi security personnel were injured in the U.S. bombing, which occurred in the regions of Babylon and Wasit in Iraq. The report cited security sources, shedding light on the human cost of the military action.
Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, clarified that the strikes specifically focused on unmanned aerial drone activities associated with the targeted groups. Watson emphasized President Biden’s commitment to prioritizing the protection of American personnel serving in high-risk areas.
U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin described the strikes as “necessary and proportionate,” aiming to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of Iran-aligned groups responsible for attacks against U.S. personnel. The justification for the military action included a recent drone attack on the Erbil Air Base that resulted in three U.S. service members being wounded, with one in critical condition.
“The President and I will not hesitate to take necessary action to defend the United States, our troops, and our interests. There is no higher priority,” stated Secretary Austin, emphasizing the commitment to safeguarding American interests.
The U.S. Central Command reported that early assessments indicated the strikes successfully destroyed the targeted facilities, likely resulting in casualties among Kataeb Hezbollah fighters. Importantly, they asserted that no civilians were killed in the operation.
The airstrikes underscore the regional implications of the conflict, with tensions rising as a consequence of events in Gaza. Washington has attributed a series of attacks on U.S. and allied forces in the region to Iranian proxy forces in Iraq and Syria, numbering at least 103 since October 17.
While Tehran has not commented on the latest strikes, it has previously denied directing proxy groups to attack U.S. forces in the region. As the situation unfolds, international observers are closely monitoring developments, expressing concern about the potential consequences of heightened military actions in the already volatile Middle East.