The Pentagon Denies Iranian Deaths in US Strikes on Iran-Linked Targets
The Pentagon has stated that it is not aware of any Iranian deaths resulting from the recent US strikes against Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria. The United States launched airstrikes on Friday, targeting more than 85 locations associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and the militias it supports, in response to a deadly attack on US troops.
Initial reports indicate that the strikes did not result in any Iranian casualties, according to Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder. However, he acknowledged that there may have been other casualties, without providing further details. Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces, a state security force that includes Iran-backed groups, reported that 16 of its members, including fighters and medics, were killed. The Iraqi government also confirmed that civilians were among the 16 dead.
In Syria, the strikes reportedly killed 23 individuals who were guarding the targeted locations, as reported by Rami Abdulrahman, director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an organization that monitors the war in Syria. While it is evident that there were casualties associated with the strikes, Ryder stated that a comprehensive assessment is still ongoing.
Furthermore, Ryder mentioned that there have been two attacks against US troops in Syria since the Friday strikes, but fortunately, there were no US injuries. The Pentagon has consistently emphasized that it does not seek war with Iran and believes that Tehran does not desire war either. However, pressure from Republicans has intensified on US President Joe Biden to take decisive action against Iran.
The recent US strikes were carried out in response to a deadly attack on US troops in Iraq. The attack, which occurred earlier this month, claimed the lives of two American service members and one British soldier. The United States holds Iran responsible for supporting and arming the militias behind the attack.
The targeted locations in Iraq and Syria were reportedly used by Iran-backed militias to launch drone attacks against US personnel and facilities. The strikes aimed to degrade the militias’ capabilities and send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate attacks on its forces.
The situation between the United States and Iran has been tense for years, with multiple incidents and escalations in the region. The Biden administration has expressed its willingness to engage in diplomacy with Iran to address concerns over its nuclear program and regional activities. However, the recent strikes indicate that the United States is prepared to take military action when necessary to protect its interests and personnel.
As the assessment of the recent strikes continues, it remains to be seen how Iran will respond. The Iranian government has condemned the US strikes as illegal and a violation of international law. Iran has also called for the removal of US forces from the region, viewing their presence as a threat to its national security.
The situation in the Middle East remains volatile, with tensions between the United States and Iran at a critical point. The Biden administration faces the challenge of balancing its desire for diplomacy with the need to protect American lives and interests. As events unfold, it is crucial for all parties involved to exercise restraint and explore diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and bloodshed.