A deadly attack took place at Tower 22, a support base in southeastern Syria that supports the Al-Tanf Garrison. This base has been crucial in the fight against Islamic State militants, with U.S. special operations working alongside other countries. The attack, likely hitting a barracks, resulted in the evacuation of at least eight service members who are now in stable condition after receiving higher level care in Jordan.
Reports indicate that the injuries sustained by the service members vary, with many suffering from traumatic brain injuries. There are also cases of spinal injuries and shrapnel wounds. This marks the first deadly attack on U.S. forces in the Middle East since the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas.
President Biden has vowed to respond after a drone strike, linked to Iran, killed three U.S. service members and wounded at least 34 others. The exact number of wounded is expected to fluctuate, according to U.S. Central Command. The aerial drone struck American troops stationed near the Syrian border in northeast Jordan.
During a visit to Brookland Baptist church in West Columbia, S.C., President Biden expressed his condolences and promised a response. “We had a tough day last night in the Middle East. We lost three brave souls,” he said before leading a moment of silence. The U.S. is determined to contain the conflict and prevent further escalation in the region.
