Rocket attack on Iraq base: Five U.S. soldiers injured
At least five U.S. soldiers were injured in a rocket attack on the Ayn al-Asad Air Base in Iraq. The attack is believed to be linked to potential retaliations by Iran and its allies following the assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.
According to U.S. officials who spoke to Reuters, the attack occurred on Monday, targeting a military base in Iraq and injuring at least five American soldiers. The Middle East has been on high alert for possible new attacks by Iran and its allies after the killing of senior Hamas and Hezbollah members last week.
Two Iraqi security sources reported that two Katyusha rockets were fired at the Ayn al-Asad Air Base in western Iraq. A security source stated that the rockets landed inside the base, and it is unclear if the attack was a retaliation by Iran for the assassination of a Hamas leader.
A U.S. official mentioned that one of the injured soldiers is in critical condition. The number of injured is based on initial reports and may change. The official added, "Base personnel are conducting damage assessments following the attack."
IRAN'S RETALIATION STATEMENTS
Last week, Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran, Iran. This attack led to threats of revenge from Iran against Israel. Iran has held Israel responsible for the attack, while Israel has denied any involvement.
The assassination of Hezbollah's senior military commander Fuad Shukur in a strike by Israel in Beirut has heightened fears that the conflict in Gaza could escalate into a broader Middle Eastern war. Iran has also blamed the U.S. for Haniyeh's assassination.
JOINT STATEMENT FROM THE U.S. AND ISRAEL
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant described the attack as a "dangerous escalation" during a phone call on Monday.
Last week, the U.S. conducted a drone strike in Iraq targeting militants who were reportedly preparing an attack. The U.S. is closely monitoring whether Iran will retaliate for Haniyeh's assassination in Tehran.
The Pentagon announced it would send additional fighter jets and naval ships to the Middle East to strengthen defenses against threats from Iran and its allies.
SITUATION IN IRAQ
Iraq, a rare ally of both the U.S. and Iran, hosts 2,500 U.S. soldiers and includes Iran-backed militias within its security forces. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, reciprocal attacks have increased.
Iraq wants the U.S.-led military coalition to begin withdrawing in September and officially end operations by September 2025. However, some U.S. forces are expected to remain in an advisory capacity.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met with U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Sunday. An Iraqi official stated that Blinken asked Sudani to persuade Iran to reduce regional tensions.
General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, the head of U.S. Central Command, is currently in the Middle East. One U.S. official mentioned that Kurilla is coordinating with allies to prepare for a possible Iranian attack on Israel.
