Eight U.S. Service Members Injured in Syria Drone Attack

Eight U.S. service members were injured in a drone attack on a base in Syria, with traumatic brain injuries and smoke inhalation reported. Three have returned to duty. The U.S. suspects Iran-backed forces were behind the attack, which happened as troops help local forces against the Islamic State.

Eight U.S. service members were injured in a drone attack on a base in Syria last week, according to a Pentagon report released on Tuesday. The incident marks the first official casualty figures confirming injuries from the attack.

Reuters initially reported that the drone attack at Rumalyn Landing Zone on Friday had wounded several U.S. and coalition personnel. Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder stated that three of the injured personnel had already returned to duty. The affected troops were treated for traumatic brain injury and smoke inhalation.

The U.S. maintains approximately 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq to advise and assist local forces combating a resurgence of Islamic State. Ryder suggested that Iran-backed forces were likely responsible for the attack but noted that the Pentagon is still investigating which specific group carried it out.

(With inputs from agencies.)