Several U.S. personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack at the Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq, according to U.S. defense officials.
The attack, confirmed by a U.S. defense official to Fox News, involved at least two Katyusha rockets. The official said that “several” U.S. personnel were hurt, and base personnel are now assessing the damage. The exact number of injuries has not been disclosed, but reports indicate that the rockets landed inside the base.
This incident occurs amidst growing tensions in the Middle East, especially following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Iran has vowed retaliation against Israel, although the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have not claimed responsibility for Haniyeh’s death. Iranian General Hossein Salami has warned of a response to Israel.
After the attack, President Biden tweeted that he and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the situation. He mentioned updates on threats from Iran and efforts to support Israel, as well as steps to protect U.S. personnel.
On Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. Blinken highlighted the need to reduce regional tensions and emphasized U.S. commitment to protecting forces and advancing stability in Iraq.