Recent Surge in Attacks on US Forces in Iraq Amid Rising Tensions in the Middle East

Several US personnel were injured in a rocket attack at a military base in Iraq, with American officials suspecting Iranian-backed militias. This incident underscores escalating tensions in the Middle East, following significant strikes on Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. The US is evaluating injuries and potential retaliatory measures.

Several US personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack at a military base in Iraq, US defense officials reported on Monday. The attack is part of a recent increase in strikes on American forces by Iranian-backed militias.

The incident occurred amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following the killings of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas' top political leader in Iran, both of whom were reportedly targeted by Israeli strikes. Both groups receive support from Iran.

US defense officials stated that troops at al-Asad airbase are still assessing the injuries and damage, with initial reports indicating that up to seven military troops and civilians were affected. Iraqi security officials confirmed the attack earlier in the day, but no group has claimed responsibility.

American officials also investigated reports of a possible second attack at the base but found no evidence to support these claims.

The officials requested anonymity to discuss military operations. The White House confirmed that the president and vice president were briefed on the situation.

In recent weeks, Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have resumed attacking bases housing US forces in Iraq and Syria, following a period of relative calm. This resurgence follows a deadly strike in Jordan in late January that killed three American soldiers and triggered a series of US retaliatory measures. An umbrella group known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq has frequently claimed responsibility for such attacks, attributing them to retaliation for US support of Israel in its conflict against Hamas in Gaza and aimed at expelling US troops from the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)