US Air Strikes Hit Over 85 Iran-Linked Targets In Syria, Iraq

The US launched airstrikes targeting Iranian-linked forces in Iraq and Syria, with President Biden warning that further action would be taken as necessary.

These strikes were in retaliation to a drone attack on a US base in Jordan, which the US attributes to Iran-backed militias. The strikes avoided Iranian soil and sought to prevent an escalation to full-scale war.

At least 18 fighters were killed as the US hit over 85 targets linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force and related militias. Long-range bombers from the US were used to deliver over 125 precision munitions at command centers and weapon storage facilities.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the strikes destroyed at least 26 major sites and resulted in injuries in Iraq. Despite being informed of the strikes, Iraq condemned them as sovereignty violations.

National Security Council's John Kirby said the US assessed the success of the strikes and did not rule out more to come. However, analysts remain skeptical of their deterrent effect.

The US has faced over 165 attacks in the Middle East since mid-October, with American troops injured and Iranian-linked groups claiming responsibility.

The US also countered Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels' threats to international shipping. Two US SEALS died during an operation against Iranian weapons supplies to the Huthis.

The recent US military deaths in the Middle East were the first since clashes between Hamas and Israel, with the US responding to the latest fatal incident with a dignified transfer ceremony for the fallen soldiers.