President Joe Biden has announced that he has reached a decision on the United States’ response to the drone strike in Jordan that resulted in the death of three American troops over the weekend. While not providing specific details during his remarks at the White House, Biden emphasized his reluctance to engage in a broader conflict in the Middle East.
An Iran-backed militia has claimed responsibility for the attack at a U.S. military base, resulting in dozens of injuries. The drone strike marked the first instance of U.S. soldiers being killed by enemy fire in the Middle East since the Israel-Gaza war erupted on October 7.
Responding to reporters’ questions, Biden held Iran responsible for supplying weapons to the perpetrators but did not elaborate on the nature of the response. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby mentioned a potential “tiered approach” with multiple actions over time to degrade the capabilities of the groups involved.
The president has various options, including retaliatory strikes on Iran-allied bases and commanders, or targeting senior commanders of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps in Iraq or Syria. Kataib Hezbollah, an armed faction affiliated with Iran, announced a suspension of military operations against U.S. troops in the region to avoid embarrassment for the Iraqi government.
The deadly strike in Jordan hit an American military base known as Tower 22, resulting in casualties and injuries. The president has spoken with the families of the fallen soldiers and will attend the dignified transfer of their bodies at Dover Air Force Base. The incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of U.S. bases to drone attacks, prompting additional measures to enhance air defenses.
