US to strike Iranian targets in Syria and Iraq, claiming retaliation for the attack on a military base
The planned attacks on targets in Iraq and Syria are a response to the death of three American soldiers at a military base in Jordan. "The Wall Street Journal" suggests, citing sources, that the attack could be as soon as next weekend. The publication emphasises that neither the United States nor Iran wants a direct military conflict.
According to the paper's sources, these measures will be "multilayered", encompassing not just military strikes but also steps to hinder the further escalation of the conflict.
Tehran denies responsibility for the drone attacks on the US base, Tower 22 in Jordan, located near the Syria border. The Iranian authorities firmly assert that any attack on Iranian territory or personnel will provoke retaliation and intensify the already tense situation in the area. They also emphasise that such actions will not contribute to the safety of American soldiers.
Earlier, US officials confirmed to CBS News that plans for a series of attacks on Iranian targets in Iraq and Syria have been approved. The US administration acknowledges the precarious situation in the Middle East. This pertains not only to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, but also to the Houthi rebels' attacks in Yemen, aimed at commercial ships in the Red Sea.
US Army: decisive, but cautious
US administration representatives indicate that the weather conditions will guide the timing of the attack. Although their military can launch attacks even during adverse conditions, they await suitable weather.
Officials indicate that this will help prevent potential mistakes and reduce the risk of civil casualties in the area. Lloyd Austin insists the US does not want to attribute to the conflict's escalation but rather to hold the "right people" accountable.
"We will continue our efforts to prevent a wider conflict in the region, however, we will take necessary measures to protect the United States, our interests, and our citizens. We will respond when we wish, where we select, and in the manner we choose," the US Secretary of Defense declared.
