The United States military has called on the Iraqi government to take action to ensure the safety of American troops in Iraq and Syria after recent unsuccessful attacks by Iran’s proxy militias.
These incidents marked the first such assaults in nearly three months, following a period of relative calm after the killing of three US soldiers in Jordan earlier this year.
In a separate development, the Biden administration announced criminal charges and sanctions against four Iranians allegedly involved in a cyber campaign targeting multiple American companies.
The sanctions also targeted two Iranian companies linked to the individuals, accused of being front companies for Iran’s Revolutionary Guard cyber command.
Amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, a senior Iranian commander had previously called on militias to cease their attacks in January. However, recent events have reignited concerns, prompting the US military to urge the Iraqi government to take necessary measures to protect US forces from further threats.
Speaking at the Pentagon, Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder emphasized the need for Baghdad to act swiftly in safeguarding coalition and Iraqi personnel. He warned that if the attacks persist, the US will defend its forces as necessary, citing previous actions taken in response to threats.
With US troops stationed in both Iraq and Syria, the recent attacks have underscored the ongoing security challenges faced by American forces in the region. While the US has imposed sanctions on individuals and entities linked to malign activities supported by Iran, the Biden administration has not enforced oil sanctions against Tehran, a major source of revenue for the Iranian government.
Recent events have highlighted the complex nature of US-Iran relations, with Washington attributing past attacks on US forces to Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria. As tensions remain high, the US military’s call for increased protection for American troops underscores the continued volatility in the region and the need for swift diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
