US launches strikes on Iran-backed groups, including Kataib Hezbollah, in Iraq

New Delhi, December 26: The United States executed targeted strikes on three locations utilized by Iran-backed forces in Iraq in response to attacks that injured three American personnel. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin justified the strikes as "necessary" and "proportionate." Austin stated, "Today, at @POTUS' direction, US military forces conducted necessary & proportionate strikes on 3 facilities used by Kataib Hezbollah & affiliated groups in Iraq. These precision strikes are a response to a series of attacks against US personnel in Iraq & Syria by Iranian-sponsored militias, including an attack by Iran-affiliated Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups on Erbil Air Base earlier today." 

The statement emphasized President Joe Biden's commitment to taking essential actions to protect the US, its troops, and its interests, without seeking an escalation of conflict but expressing readiness for further measures if necessary. The Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Shiite militia, has a history of hostility towards US-led coalition forces, leading to its designation as a 'Foreign Terrorist Organization' by the US in 2009.

Today's assault resulted in three US personnel wounded, with one in critical condition. Defense Secretary Austin expressed concern, extending prayers to the injured Americans. Emphasizing President Biden's stance, he asserted a resolute commitment to defending the nation and its interests without seeking an escalation of conflicts but remaining prepared to take necessary measures.

The Kataib Hezbollah, formed in 2007 with Iran's support, was labeled a 'Foreign Terrorist Organization' in 2009 by the US for its attacks against coalition forces in Iraq. Attacks on US troops in Iraq surged amid the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, where over 1,100, mainly civilians, died in Israeli strikes, sparking outrage. These incidents incited anti-US forces in the Middle East, leading to attacks against American troops.

Approximately 2,500 US troops are stationed in Iraq, and around 900 are in Syria, aiming to prevent the resurgence of the Islamic State group. The heightened tensions in the region following the Gaza conflict have contributed to attacks on US troops by adversaries opposing their presence.

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