WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Sunday, three US service members were killed and dozens more were injured by a drone strike in Jordan.
According to US Central Command, eight injured service members were medically evacuated to receive higher-level care. Officials say the number of wounded is expected to rise.
This is a huge escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East since the war between Israel and Hamas. Between October 7 and last Friday, there had been nearly 160 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria. Those attacks came without serious injury or damage to US forces, until Sunday.
Sunday’s drone strike at Tower 22, a small US outpost in northeast Jordan near the Syrian border, marks the first time US troops have been killed by enemy fire in the middle east since the beginning of the war in Gaza.
Iran has denied involvement, but according to US officials, the drone was fired by Iran-backed militants and appeared to come from Syria. Officials are still trying to figure out which militia group is responsible.
Lawmakers on both sides are sending thoughts and prayers to the service members’ families. Many are also addressing the concerning escalation.
“I’m horrified by the deaths of 3 brave American servicemembers who were killed by a drone attack in Jordan. I’m also praying for the safety of the dozens who were injured. My heart is with the families of those killed and injured,” said Sen. Gary Peters (D- MI) on X, formerly Twitter.
“Our hearts break for the three soldiers who were killed by a drone strike from an Iranian-backed terror group. Our brave warriors risk their lives every day in service to our Nation, and we mourn this great loss. Poor policy and weak-kneed ‘leadership’ have led to an emboldened Iran. The Biden Administration continues to bow to the whims of Iran, only to act shocked when they attack and kill our troops through proxy fighters. We need steadfast American leadership – our men and women in uniform deserve better,” said Rep. Jack Bergman (R- MI) Monday afternoon in a post on X.
In a statement Sunday, President Joe Biden said: “We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt — we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner our choosing.”
