U.S. forces launched airstrikes in western Iraq, as captured in video footage showing a missile ascending into the night and resulting in large smoke clouds. According to CENTCOM, these operations targeted over 85 sites associated with the IRGC Quds Force and allied militias across Iraq and Syria. The objectives included command centers, intelligence facilities, and weapon storage sites.
Joe Biden emphasized the U.S.’s retaliatory stance with the warning, “If you harm an American, we will respond.” This sentiment was echoed in the military’s actions, which were exclusively carried out by U.S. aircraft.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo remarked on the necessity for these airstrikes to deter further aggression from Iran, stating, “The single measure of their effectiveness will be whether they deter further Iranian aggression.”
Amid concerns over the response’s timing and strategy, Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the administration’s approach, urging a stronger stance against Iran to prevent further attacks on American personnel and interests. He highlighted the escalation of attacks against U.S. forces in the Middle East, attributing it to a policy of appeasement towards Iran.
The Biden administration has clarified that the U.S. does not seek conflict but will take decisive action to protect its forces and interests. Following the airstrikes, there’s been a mix of support for taking action and criticism regarding the timing and scope of the response, reflecting the complex dynamics of U.S.-Iran relations and the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of American personnel abroad.