US Personnel Wounded in Recent Drone Attacks in Iraq and Syria
The Pentagon Made a Statement Late on Tuesday
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October 25, 2023
In a late Tuesday statement, the Pentagon revealed that US and coalition forces have been subjected to a series of attacks in Iraq and Syria over the past week, Zero Hedge wrote.
Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, speaking to NBC, disclosed that these attacks involved a combination of one-way attack drones and rockets.
However, what has caught the attention of many is the revelation that 24 US personnel were wounded in these attacks. According to NBC News, U.S. Central Command confirmed that two dozen American military personnel sustained minor injuries in a series of drone attacks at American bases in Iraq and Syria. The Pentagon had previously confirmed the attacks but had not disclosed the number of casualties.
The report states that on October 18, at least two one-way attack drones targeted the al-Tanf military base in southern Syria, resulting in minor injuries to 20 American personnel. Despite the injuries being classified as minor, all personnel were evaluated and treated before returning to duty. Fortunately, there was no significant damage to the base installations. However, in Iraq, one of the one-way attack drones was shot down by US forces, but the debris from the drone destroyed a hangar containing small aircraft.
Amidst the attacks, a contractor suffered cardiac arrest and died while seeking shelter. However, the Pentagon has not explicitly linked this casualty to the assault. It is unclear whether the Pentagon withheld this information to ensure an accurate account of the incidents and wounded personnel or to prevent the escalation of tensions by releasing the news prematurely.
These drone attacks highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by US and coalition forces in the region. The use of one-way attack drones presents a new and concerning threat, as they can carry out attacks without the need for a human operator to guide them. This raises questions about the origin and capabilities of these drones, as well as the need for enhanced defenses and countermeasures.
The Pentagon's decision to disclose the number of wounded personnel underscores the importance of transparency and accountability. By providing this information, the Pentagon aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the events and ensure that the sacrifices and injuries sustained by US personnel are acknowledged.
As tensions remain high in the region, it is crucial for the US and coalition forces to assess the threat posed by these drone attacks and take appropriate measures to enhance security. The incidents serve as a reminder that the evolving nature of warfare necessitates constant adaptation and preparedness.
The Pentagon's disclosure of these attacks and the number of wounded personnel serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by US forces in the region. It also underscores the need for continued vigilance and the development of effective countermeasures to address emerging threats. The US and its coalition partners must work together to ensure the safety and security of their personnel and maintain stability in the region.