The US has accused Iran of carrying out a drone strike on its base in northeastern Syria, injuring eight troops. The attack, initially reported without casualties, caused traumatic brain injuries and smoke inhalation. Three personnel have already returned to duty.
The Pentagon believes that “Iran-backed forces” executed the strike, though the specific militia responsible has yet to be identified. This incident occurred in Rimelan, near the Turkish and Iraqi borders, where US troops have operated out of the Rumalyn Landing Zone since 2015.
With a mission to prevent the resurgence of ISIS, the US maintains roughly 900 troops in Syria, supporting Kurdish militias. Despite objections from Damascus and in violation of international law, this presence persists. The region’s strategic importance, housing vital oil reserves and agricultural land, underscores the complexities of the conflict.
As tensions escalate, the repercussions of this attack may reverberate throughout the region, shaping the intricate dynamics of power at play. Stay tuned for further developments.