'THIS IS PERSONAL': US service members killed in Jordan drone strike, DOD says

Summary

In a recent interview, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence and a Fox News contributor, discusses the significant escalation in tensions due to attacks on American forces. Highlighting the importance of a strong and targeted response, Kellogg echoes President Trump's stance that attacking Americans warrants severe repercussions. He advocates for striking hard against Iranian targets, emphasizing the necessity of changing the normalization of hostile acts in the Middle East. Kellogg stresses the importance of solidarity among allies and the potential implications of the U.S. response on global perceptions, especially from adversaries like China and Russia.

Takeaways

• 😳 This is a very significant and concerning turn of events after 3 Americans were killed
• 😠 The attackers' lives are forfeit according to President Trump's past statements
• 😤 The attacks were expected given the normalization of activities in the region
• 😡 Iran-backed groups are responsible for many attacks on US forces
• 😠 The Biden administration can't pull punches anymore and has to respond strongly
• 🔨 A hard strike is needed against Iranian targets beyond tit-for-tat
• 💥 The Pentagon will provide options for striking facilities, troops, etc.
• 😤 Normalization led to accepting attacks, so changing the dynamic is hard now
• 🇺🇸 This is a chance for Biden to make a strong statement watched by allies and adversaries
• 👀 China is watching the US response to gauge further aggression

Q & A

What precipitated this escalation of events?

The killing of 3 American service members by an Iranian drone attack.

Who does General Kellogg believe is responsible for the attack?

General Kellogg believes Iran is responsible, either directly or through proxies like Hezbollah.

What options does the US have for responding to the attack?

According to General Kellogg, the US could launch strikes against Iranian military facilities, leadership, or drone manufacturing sites.

What is the concern around the US's past responses?

General Kellogg is concerned the US has normalized attacks in the region by not responding forcefully enough in the past.

Why does the response need to be significant?

To reset expectations and deter future attacks by clearly showing the US will retaliate against any attack on its forces.

What role do US allies play?

The US is taking the lead but will likely coordinate with allies like France, the UK, and Italy.

How are China and other adversaries viewing the situation?

They are watching the US response closely to gauge resolve and whether aggression will be tolerated.

What message can the US send with its response?

The US can demonstrate it will not accept attacks on its troops and will retaliate disproportionately.

What precedent does this set?

The US response will likely shape expectations around retaliation for any future attacks in the region.

What are the risks of inaction?

According to General Kellogg, further aggression and attacks if the response is seen as weak.