Western Reader
The United States military bases in Syria have recently been attacked twice. These attacks were carried out by an Iranian-backed terror group called the Houthis, who used missiles and drones.
One of the attacks targeted a military base in southern Syria where US troops have been training forces to combat the Islamic State group. The base was hit by drones, and while one drone was successfully intercepted and shot down, another caused minor injuries.
In addition to these attacks, there have been similar drone strikes on US and coalition bases in Iraq. Tensions in the region have been escalating following an explosion at a Gaza hospital that resulted in significant loss of life.
Earlier this month, the US military shot down a Turkish drone over Syria after it approached US troops despite multiple warnings.
-Hezbollah will intervene if Israel invades Gaza
-Israel will kill Assad if Hezbollah intervenes
-Iran and Syria will attack US bases if Israel kills Assad
-US will retaliate if Iran and Syria attack US bases
pic.twitter.com/xmLrI2nZ6s— Artemis🇵🇸🪐🔭🌌 (@CosmosEnjoyer25) October 16, 2023
Another US base in Syria, the Conoco Gas Field and US Operations base, has reportedly been attacked twice within 48 hours. This base is located north of the previously mentioned attack at the Al-Omar Oilfield in the south.
The Open Source Intelligence Monitor has reported significant damage to a pipeline and a large fire near a US Operations Base within the Al-Omar Oilfields of Northeastern Syria as a result of these attacks.
The Pentagon has suggested that the missiles launched by the Iranian-backed terror group may have been intended for Israel, but the exact target remains unknown. The US Navy destroyer USS Carney intercepted these missiles off the coast of Yemen in the Red Sea.
The Houthis in Yemen have been designated as a terror group by the US and are believed to receive support, including arms, training, and financial assistance, from Iran and its proxy, Hezbollah.
🚨Update: US forces under attack in the last 24 hours!!
🟥 US base in Syria’s Conoco gas field got attacked.
🟥 US base in Syria’s Tanf area got attacked.
🟥 US base in Iraq’s Ain al-Assad airbase got attacked.
🟥 US Navy warship in Yemen’s water just got attacked.Pro-… pic.twitter.com/NYvu6pwLI2
— US Civil Defense News (@CaptCoronado) October 20, 2023
The US Department of Defense has stated that any response to these attacks will be carried out at a time and manner of their choosing.
In the past week, the US has deployed significant naval power to the Middle East, including two aircraft carriers, support ships, and about 2,000 Marines. The USS Carney recently moved into the Red Sea to help ensure maritime security and stability in the region.
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest a direct connection between the Houthi missile and drone attacks and the reported attacks on the two US military bases in Syria.
However, these incidents highlight the escalating tensions and instability in the region. It is crucial for the international community to take note of these developments and work towards ensuring peace and security.
This article appeared in StatesmanPost and has been published here with permission.
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