‘Several’ US personnel injured in rocket attack on Iraq base

August 5, 2024 - In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, several U.S. personnel were injured on Monday in a suspected rocket attack at Al Asad Air Base in western Iraq. The attack involved at least two rockets targeting the base, which houses both U.S. and coalition forces.

According to U.S. defense officials, the attack occurred in the late afternoon. Initial reports indicate that the rockets were fired from a modified box truck, a tactic often used by militia groups in the region. The injured personnel are currently receiving medical treatment, and their injuries are not believed to be critical. A post-attack damage assessment is underway to determine the full extent of the damage and to ensure the safety of all personnel on the base.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly following recent high-profile assassinations. Last week, a senior Hezbollah commander was killed in Lebanon, and Hamas' top political leader was assassinated in Iran. These events have led to increased threats of retaliation, particularly from Iran and its allied militia groups.

U.S. officials have long attributed attacks on American troops in Iraq and Syria to Iran-backed militias. While no group has yet claimed responsibility for Monday's attack, the modus operandi suggests the involvement of these militia groups.

The Pentagon has confirmed the attack and the injuries sustained by U.S. personnel. A spokesperson stated, "We can confirm a rocket attack on U.S. and coalition forces at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq. Initial reports indicate that several U.S. personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment."

The White House has also been briefed on the situation. In a statement, a White House official said, "The briefing focused on the threats posed by Iran and its proxies to Israel and to U.S. servicemembers in the region. The President and Vice President were briefed on the attack at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq. They discussed the steps we are taking to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing."

The attack on Al Asad Air Base is part of a broader pattern of increasing hostilities in the region. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has described the situation as a "critical moment" and has urged all parties to work towards de-escalation. In a conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, Blinken emphasized the importance of calming regional tensions and avoiding further escalation.

The U.S. has recently bolstered its military presence in the Middle East in anticipation of potential conflicts. This includes deploying additional naval vessels, a carrier strike group, and a squadron of fighter jets. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has stated that these measures are intended to protect U.S. interests and personnel in the region.

Al Asad Air Base has been a target of attacks in the past. Notably, in early 2020, Iran launched a missile attack on the base in retaliation for the U.S. assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. That attack resulted in over 100 American troops being diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries.

As the situation develops, U.S. officials are closely monitoring the region for any further threats. The recent attack underscores the volatile nature of the Middle East and the ongoing risks faced by U.S. and coalition forces stationed there. The international community will be watching closely to see how the U.S. responds to this latest provocation and what steps will be taken to prevent further escalation.

This is a breaking news story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.