Iran-backed armed groups targeted US troops in Iraq shortly after Tehran pledged revenge and accused Israel of a lethal attack on a facility housing its elite forces in Damascus, escalating concerns of a broader regional conflict.
The assault resulted in at least one Iraqi casualty and potential American casualties, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Saturday.
It occurred hours after Tehran vowed retaliation against Israel for its strike on the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) in Syria.
CENTCOM reported, “Multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase.” Although most projectiles were intercepted by the base’s air defense systems, some impacted the base.
Attacks on US forces in Iraq and Syria have surged since the Israeli military offensive on October 7, backed by Washington. Israel, following its offensive in the Gaza Strip, has expanded its strikes against Iran-affiliated armed groups in Syria and Lebanon.
Yemen’s Houthis, part of Tehran-backed groups forming the “axis of resistance,” have targeted Israel and Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea, showing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. This has disrupted one of the busiest maritime routes.
The Houthis demand that Israel cease its war on Gaza and allow humanitarian aid into the besieged territory, urgently needing food, medicines, and other essential items.
