US Service Members Killed in Drone Attack in Jordan

Date: January 28, 2024

News Type: Breaking News

Country: Jordan

Location: Near Syrian Border

‎-American official: The number of casualties as a result of targeting an American base in Jordan has risen to 34

-President Biden says “we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq”, adding “have no doubt — we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner our choosing.”

The fragile peace in the Middle East was shattered on January 28, 2024, when a deadly drone attack near the Syrian border in Jordan claimed the lives of three US service members. This incident marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, bringing into focus the complex geopolitical landscape and the precarious position of foreign military personnel in conflict zones. The attack in Jordan, coupled with a related incident in southern Syria, underscores the volatile nature of the region and the multifaceted threats faced by coalition forces operating there.

In the tragic drone attack that occurred near the Syrian-Jordanian border on January 28, 2024, three US service members were killed, and several dozen others were injured. This incident at a military outpost in Jordan significantly escalates the already tense situation in the region. The strategic location of the outpost, near the Syrian border, underlines its importance in the broader context of Middle Eastern conflicts.

CENTCOM has confirmed that three U.S. service members were killed and 25 were injured via a one-way attack drone.

Additionally, in a related but separate event, President Joe Biden ordered the US military to carry out retaliatory airstrikes against Iranian-backed militia groups following a drone attack in northern Iraq. This attack resulted in injuries to three US service members, with one of them suffering critical injuries. The attack was claimed by the Iranian-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah and associated groups. These airstrikes reflect the ongoing tensions and the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, particularly concerning the involvement of Iranian-backed entities and the broader implications for regional security.

Statement from the White House by the President of the United States, Joe Biden
Statement from the White House by the President of the United States, Joe Biden regarding last night’s Drone Attack by Iranian-Backed Forces on a U.S. Patrol Base in Northeastern Jordan which resulted in the Death of 3 American Servicemembers:
“Today, America’s heart is heavy. Last night, three U.S. service members were killed—and many wounded—during an unmanned aerial drone attack on our forces stationed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border. While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.
Jill and I join the families and friends of our fallen—and Americans across the country—in grieving the loss of these warriors in this despicable and wholly unjust attack. These service members embodied the very best of our nation: Unwavering in their bravery. Unflinching in their duty. Unbending in their commitment to our country— risking their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans, and our allies and partners with whom we stand in the fight against terrorism. It is a fight we will not cease.
The three American service members we lost were patriots in the highest sense. And their ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten by our nation. Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honor and valor. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt — we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner our choosing.”

The series of attacks and retaliatory strikes highlight the precarious security situation in the Middle East, especially for US and coalition forces. The Biden administration’s measured response to these attacks, prioritizing the safety of American personnel while navigating the complexities of regional politics and conflicts, is a critical aspect of current US foreign policy in the region.

The recent drone attacks in Jordan and Syria represent a worrying escalation in a region already marred by conflict and instability. These incidents not only highlight the ongoing challenges faced by US and coalition forces but also underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. As tensions rise, it’s imperative to closely monitor the situation and understand the broader implications for regional and international security.