On Friday, October 27, 2023, the U.S. military conducted a defensive military operation in Syria against Iran-backed militant groups. Just days prior, these groups had allegedly launched attacks on American soldiers and military installations in Syria. According to sources within the U.S. military, this action was taken in response to the provocation.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin issued an official statement regarding this matter. He stated that the U.S. military had carried out operations against two militia locations in Syria, which support Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). These groups had attempted several unsuccessful attacks on U.S. military personnel in recent days, leading to this response.
During the attack, one American contractor tragically suffered a fatal heart attack while taking shelter. Additionally, 21 U.S. soldiers were reported to have sustained minor injuries during the incident. However, they have since returned to duty.
Secretary of Defense Austin emphasized that the United States does not seek conflict with any nation, and there is no intention to engage in hostilities. Nevertheless, he underscored that the U.S. cannot tolerate Iran-backed attacks on its military personnel. He warned that if such actions persist, the U.S. will be compelled to respond in defense of its forces in the days ahead.