What’s happening:
An assault on Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq resulted in minor injuries to US personnel and serious injury to a member of Iraq’s security forces, according to a US official who chose to remain anonymous. The method of the attack remains under investigation, with both ballistic missiles and rockets being possibilities.
Why it matters:
The frequency of these attacks on US troops has increased since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war in October, with this latest incident underscoring Iraq’s precarious position in the volatile power struggle between the US, Israel, and Iran-backed entities. The incidents reflect the broader regional contest and escalating efforts to influence outcomes in the Middle East.
Between the lines:
The United States maintains a military presence in Iraq, consisting of 2,500 troops aiding local forces to avert a resurgence of ISIS. Yet there exists a growing sentiment within Iraq, finalized by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s office, to request the removal of US forces—a reaction to recent US military actions, including a drone strike that Baghdad condemns. Despite objections, the Pentagon indicates it has not received formal notice regarding troop withdrawal.
Big picture:
With the US allied with Israel and maintaining troops in Iraq as a part of ongoing anti-terrorism operations, incidents like the attack on Ain al-Asad have the potential to ignite broader conflict in the region. These events spotlight the challenges ahead as the US balances its strategic military partnerships and its fight against common threats like ISIS with the delicate political and sectarian dynamics of Iraq.
Our take:
This attack not only emphasizes the direct risk to military personnel in the region but also serves as a grim reminder of the intricate web of allegiances, tensions, and potential for conflicts that still exist within the Middle East. While strategies are constantly adapted, the underlying issues persist, ushering in an era where military clashes could have far-reaching and unpredictable consequences.
This story was first published on jpost.com.