U.S. Promises Ongoing Response to Drone Attack, Targets Iran-Backed Militants
In the aftermath of a deadly drone attack on an American base in Jordan, the United States has declared its intent to take further action against Iran-backed militants. Jake Sullivan, the White House’s national security adviser, revealed on Sunday that the recent strikes in Iraq and Syria were just the beginning of the U.S. response.
Sullivan conveyed, “This was the beginning of our response, there will be more steps. Some of those steps will be seen, some may not be seen. But there will be more action taken to respond to the tragic death of the three brave U.S. service members.”
The retaliatory strikes, launched late Friday, targeted up to 85 locations at seven facilities in less than 45 minutes. The U.S. holds Iran-backed fighters responsible for the attack on Tower 22 in Jordan on January 28, where three American troops lost their lives.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the targeted facilities were being used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and affiliated militias to attack U.S. forces. Despite Iran’s denial of involvement, Sullivan warned that the U.S. is prepared for any contingency, emphasizing a swift and forceful response to direct retaliation from Tehran.
In addressing the escalating tensions, Sullivan highlighted ongoing communication with Israel and diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 terror attack. While emphasizing the critical nature of a hostage deal for sustained peace, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of negotiations and the lack of a precise timetable for an agreement.
Sullivan reiterated the U.S. commitment to a two-state solution for lasting peace in the region and emphasized the need for security guarantees for Israel. He also touched upon President Joe Biden’s communication of views to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding a future Palestinian state.
U.S. plans ‘more action’ against Iran-backed militants responsible for deadly drone attack, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan sayshttps://t.co/D8OFgMjRWh
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On the domestic front, Sullivan commented on Congress’s efforts to provide military aid to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. He criticized attempts to address Israel’s security as a political game and emphasized that the security of Israel should be treated as sacred, not subject to political maneuvering. Sullivan indicated that President Biden favors the Senate’s comprehensive approach over a stand-alone aid bill.
As tensions persist in the region, the U.S. remains committed to addressing the complex geopolitical challenges with a multifaceted approach.