Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed “outrage and sorrow” on Monday over the killing of three U.S. soldiers in Jordan by an Iran-backed terrorist group. The attack, which took place near the Syrian border, marked a significant escalation as it is the first time U.S. troops have been killed by enemy fire in the Middle East since the Israel-Hamas war began on Oct. 7.
During a bilateral meeting with NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg at the Pentagon, Austin vowed to take action against Iran and its terrorist proxy groups. He stated, “Let me start with my outrage and sorrow for the deaths of three brave U.S. troops in Jordan and for the other troops who were wounded. The president and I will not tolerate attacks on U.S. forces, and we will take all necessary actions to defend the U.S. and our troops.”
Austin’s remarks came on his first day back in the office following a nearly monthlong medical absence. He had been hospitalized for nearly two weeks in January but had been working from home until now. Austin expressed gratitude for the well wishes he received during his recovery.
The drone attack on U.S. troops resulted in the deaths of three service members and left at least 34 others injured. The U.S. outpost targeted, known as Tower 22, was located near the Syrian border.
President Biden was briefed about the attack on Sunday morning by Austin, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, and Principal Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer. The White House described the attack as a significant escalation and expressed concern over U.S. troops facing numerous drone and missile attacks in Iraq and Syria since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.
Since the conflict began, over 160 drone and missile attacks have targeted U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria. However, this is the first time U.S. troops have suffered fatalities. The attack highlights the increasing threat posed by Iran-backed groups in the region.
Anders Hagstrom, a reporter with Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events, contributed to this report.
In conclusion, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s condemnation of the Iran-backed attack on U.S. soldiers in Jordan emphasizes the United States’ commitment to defend its forces and take necessary action against Iran and its proxy groups. The incident marks a significant escalation in the region’s conflicts and underscores the growing threat posed by Iran-backed terrorism.
