BAGHDAD, Iraq – The United States carried out a targeted strike in Iraq, killing a senior leader of the Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah on Wednesday. The commander was responsible for operations in Syria and had been directly involved in planning and participating in attacks on U.S. forces in the region, according to U.S. Central Command.
The strike was in response to a drone attack in Jordan that killed three U.S. soldiers and wounded several others. This incident prompted President Biden to promise a response, with the U.S. targeting over 85 sites in Iraq and Syria last Friday, including command and control centers, missiles, and rockets used by militia groups and their Iranian sponsors.
Kataib Hezbollah is one of the Iran-backed groups held responsible for a series of attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan. The Pentagon reported at least 168 attacks by Iranian-backed militia groups since October 17, resulting in the deaths of three U.S. service members and injuries to many others.
The U.S. Central Command stated that the targeted strike in Iraq aimed to eliminate the commander responsible for numerous attacks on U.S. forces in the region. It also emphasized that there were no civilian casualties or collateral damage as a result of the strike.
The ongoing conflict between Iranian-backed militia groups and the United States has led to escalating tensions in the region. The U.S. retaliation for the drone attack in Jordan reflects a continuation of the longstanding conflict between the two sides. The U.S. government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its personnel and interests in the Middle East, amidst the persistent threats posed by militia groups with ties to Iran.
The targeted strike is a part of the U.S. response to the escalating violence in the region and sends a clear message to Iran and its proxies about the consequences of their actions. As tensions continue to simmer in the Middle East, the U.S. remains vigilant in its efforts to combat threats from Iranian-backed militia groups.