The U.S. military has conducted strikes against Iranian-backed groups in Syria for a second consecutive day in response to rocket attacks on its forces. CENTCOM reported targeting weapons storage and logistics, while U.S. service members remain deployed to prevent ISIL resurgence and limit Iranian influence in the region.
The United States military has conducted a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed forces in Syria, marking the second consecutive day of operations. These strikes were in response to a recent rocket attack on U.S. forces stationed at a base in northeastern Syria’s Hasakah province. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the strikes successfully targeted the group’s weapons storage and logistics facilities, although specific details regarding the number of strikes or identities of the targeted groups were not disclosed. Earlier, a rocket assault had been directed at the U.S. Patrol Base Shaddadi, resulting in no casualties or damage to the base, as confirmed by CENTCOM. The military engagement on Tuesday involved multiple strikes on Iranian-backed groups across two locations in Syria, where nine distinct targets were hit. Commander Michael Erik Kurilla of CENTCOM stated that the U.S. will take aggressive action against any threats to its forces and regional allies. Currently, approximately 900 U.S. service members are deployed in the eastern regions of Syria, along with an additional 2,500 stationed in Iraq. This military presence aims to prevent a resurgence of ISIL (ISIS), which previously seized significant territories in both nations before facing military defeat. Recent reports indicate that CENTCOM’s strikes resulted in casualties within Iranian-backed militias, with four confirmed fatalities and ten injuries near Al Mayadeen in Deir Az Zor province. Although a full withdrawal was ordered by former President Donald Trump in 2018, U.S. forces remain as a strategic measure against ISIL and to curtail Iranian influence within Syria.
The ongoing military involvement of the United States in Syria is primarily aimed at countering ISIL and limiting the influence of Iran in the region. Following the 2014 resurgence of ISIS, which captured large swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria, U.S. forces were deployed to combat this threat. Despite declarations of a successful campaign against ISIS, U.S. military operations continue in parts of Syria to stabilize the situation and deter Iranian-backed entities that may pose threats to U.S. interests and allied forces. This has led to a complex dynamic in the region, wherein U.S. strikes are often retaliatory in nature, responding to provocations from Iranian-affiliated groups.
In summary, the recent airstrikes conducted by the U.S. military against Iranian-backed forces in Syria represent a continuation of the U.S. strategy to address threats from both ISIL and Iranian influence in the region. CENTCOM has reaffirmed its commitment to protect U.S. personnel and regional allies, underscoring the ongoing volatility in Syria. The recent strikes, coupled with the established U.S. presence, illustrate the intricate challenges of maintaining stability while countering hostile entities. The situation remains fluid and requires continuous attention from military and diplomatic agencies.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
