US troops came under renewed attack across the Middle East over the weekend as the Pentagon fears Iran-backed groups may seek to undermine the American presence alongside the war between Israel and Hamas.
According to the Defense Ministry, the number of attacks has now risen to 38, including 20 in Iraq and 18 in Syria. That’s up from 32 at the end of last week.
Iran-backed militant groups have launched drone and missile attacks on U.S. bases, wounding several people but killing no one.
Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters that the attacks “harassed” troops and resulted in 45 injuries of varying degrees.
That includes at least 24 service members with traumatic brain injuries and the rest with minor injuries such as shrapnel wounds, twisted ankles or headaches.
The increase in the total shows US forces were attacked six times over the weekend, suggesting militant groups are not backing down.
Washington has deployed hundreds of troops, two aircraft carriers and a nuclear submarine to the Middle East to deter groups from exploiting unrest in the region sparked by Israel’s war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
The Biden administration has increasingly warned Iran and other potential attackers against escalating tensions. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated those calls during a surprise visit to Iraq on Sunday.
Ryder said Monday that the U.S. was trying to “ensure that this does not lead to escalation” and would continue to protect American troops in the region.
“We will ensure that we take all necessary measures to protect our forces,” Ryder said.
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