Three American troops have been killed and at least two dozen service members are injured following a drone attack in Jordan near the Syria border overnight.
It marks the first time US troops have been killed by enemy fire in the Middle East since the beginning of the Gaza war.
The attack at Tower 22 in Jordan is said to be a significant escalation of an already tense situation in the Middle East.
Chiefs say the "one way" drone attack struck a small US outpost overnight.
US President Joe Biden has condemned the attack, adding that it was carried out by 'radical Iran-backed militant groups' in Syria and Iraq
Getty/ Reuters
US President Joe Biden has condemned the attack, adding that it was carried out by "radical Iran-backed militant groups" in Syria and Iraq.
In a statement, he said: "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.
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"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."
He added: "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 deaths were confirmed by the US Central Command this weekend.
The deaths were confirmed by the US Central Command this weekend
Reuters
US officials say the identities of the service members will be withheld for 24 hours until their next of kin have been informed.
Writing on X, geopolitical and security analyst Micheal Horowitz said the location of Tower 22 confirms the attack was an escalation.
"The attack against Tower 22 in Jordan is a significant step up from prior attacks by Iran-tied outlets," he said.
"I don't see how this isn't seen as a very deliberate escalation given the timing - just amidst reports that the US is considering withdrawing - and given the location, namely a support in Jordan base that may not have been as well as defended as others."