Officials seek the middle ground between defense and de-escalation.
The Defense Department reported on Monday that U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East were attacked six more times over the weekend. Attacks against U.S. military bases in Iraq and Syria have increased as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, bringing the total number of attacks launched against those bases in the last four weeks to 38.
The Pentagon is concerned that the attacks are being conducted by Iranian-funded militant groups, and an overly aggressive response to them could broaden conflict in the area. Pentagon Press Secretary Brigadier General Pat Ryder said the U.S. is trying to “make sure that this does not spiral into escalation” and would continue to protect American troops in the region.
“We will make sure that we’re taking any necessary actions to protect our forces,” General Ryder said.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For leaders in the Pentagon as they advise the president and defense secretary.
- For safety for the U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East.
- For the U.S. commanders in Iraq and Syria as they seek to defend American military bases.
Sources: The Hill, Politico
