Iran-Backed Militia Accused by US in Fatal Drone Attack on American Troops in Jordan
- Posted on February 1, 2024
- International Affairs
- By Arijit Dutta
- 243 Views
The US accuses Iran-backed Islamic Resistance, including Kataib Hezbollah, of a deadly drone attack in Jordan. President Biden contemplates a response as Iran warns of decisive retaliation. Ongoing regional conflicts add complexity, and the US faces pressure to navigate the situation delicately.

In
a recent development, the United States has attributed a deadly drone attack on
American troops in Jordan to the Iran-backed
Islamic Resistance, specifically naming Kataib Hezbollah, part of the
umbrella group. Three American soldiers lost their lives in the attack,
prompting President Joe Biden to contemplate an appropriate response.
National
Security Council spokesman John Kirby emphasized that the US believes the
attack was meticulously planned and executed by the Islamic Resistance.
President Biden is carefully evaluating response options, underlining that any
action taken will not be a one-off occurrence.
Iran
swiftly responded warning of a decisive reaction to any potential US attack on
the Islamic Republic. This follows Biden's vow of 'revenge' after the drone
assault in Jordan, which also left 40 troops injured at a strategic base in
northeastern Jordan, vital for US operations in Syria.
While
the US gears up for potential retaliatory strikes in the Middle East, concerns
arise about the broader regional impact. Ongoing conflicts, such as Israel's
campaign against Hamas in Gaza and Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea, could
be exacerbated by additional American military actions.
A recent incident involved a US Navy destroyer intercepting an anti-ship cruise missile launched by Houthi rebels. Furthermore, the US dismissed claims by Kataib Hezbollah of suspending military operations, asserting that the group's actions speak louder than its statements.
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The
Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, warned the US
against any aggression, citing a history of attacks by Iran-aligned militias.
Iravani promised a strong response to any threat against Iran, its interests,
or its nationals.
According to US military data, Iran-aligned militias, including Kataib Hezbollah, have launched numerous attacks on American military installations in Iraq and Syria. The delicate situation in the Middle East has prompted the Biden administration to weigh its response carefully, mindful of the ongoing tensions resulting from conflicts in Gaza and other regions.