Pentagon: US doesn't want a wider war with Iran or in Middle East

Summary

In an interview, a US military spokesperson provided updates regarding a recent attack that killed 3 US service members and wounded over 30 others at a facility in Jordan near the Syria border. He condemned the attack, attributed to Iranian-backed militias, as unacceptable. While not divulging specifics, he stated the US will respond at a time and manner of its choosing to protect troops and avoid escalating regional conflicts. The spokesperson also announced the return of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to the Pentagon after recovering from an illness.

Takeaways

• 😟 3 US service members were killed in a facility near the Syria border in Jordan. At least 34 were injured with 8 evacuated and in stable condition.
• 😟 The number of injuries could rise as more are diagnosed. Thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those killed and injured.
• 😡 The US will take necessary action to protect troops globally from Iranian proxies. But the goal isn't to widen the regional conflict.
• 😠 Over 150 attacks on US troops in Iraq and Syria since October. Air defense has protected forces but the drone attack shows vulnerabilities.
• 😠 This attack bears the signature of Iranian-backed militias like Kataib Hezbollah. Iran arms these proxies for deniability.
• 😎 The US aims for regional security and stability, not escalation. Troops are in Iraq to defeat ISIS with Iraqi consent.
• 😟 Iran exploits tensions to try to expel the US and coalition from the region via proxies. But the US just wants stability.
• 😠 The US will respond at a time of its choosing to the attack. But again, it doesn't seek war with Iran.
• 😊 Sec. Austin has recovered well from illness and will return soon to the Pentagon and meetings.
• 😐 The US wants to prevent wider conflict while keeping troops safe. It remains focused on engaging partners.

Q & A

Where did the recent attack that killed 3 U.S. service members take place?

The attack took place at a facility near the Syria-Jordan border in northeast Jordan.

How many U.S. service members were injured in the attack?

At least 34 service members were injured in the attack. 8 had to be evacuated outside of Jordan but all are in stable condition currently.

What group is suspected to be behind the attack?

The attack is suspected to have been carried out by Iranian-backed proxies, likely Kataib Hezbollah based on the signature of the attack.

What is the goal of U.S. forces in the region?

The U.S. forces are there to focus on the lasting defeat of ISIS and to promote regional security and stability.

How has Iran historically used proxy groups in the region?

Iran has long used proxy groups to give itself plausible deniability, implement policies, and try to expel U.S. and allied forces from the region.

How many attacks against U.S. forces have there been since October 2021?

There have been over 150 rocket and UAV attacks against U.S. forces since October 2021.

What is the condition of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin?

Austin is recovering well from his recent health issues, with excellent prognosis. He still has some lingering leg pain but is doing very well overall.

What meetings will Secretary Austin have upon his return to the Pentagon?

Austin is expected to meet with NATO Secretary General, the White House, CENTCOM, the Joint Chiefs chairman, and maintain contact with Congress.

How does the U.S. aim to respond to the attack in Jordan?

The U.S. will take deliberate, appropriate action in response but does not seek to escalate conflict or instigate war with Iran.

Does Iran seek war with the U.S.?

It's unclear if Iran seeks open war with the U.S., but its actions are contrary to peace and stability in the region.