U.S. military efforts have yet to quell assaults by Iran-backed factions on American forces in the Middle East and shipping lanes in the Red Sea, despite recent extensive airstrikes. The attacks, attributed by the armed groups to the Israel-Hamas conflict, have emanated from or targeted four different countries, presenting a multifaceted challenge for the United States. Its objective is to contain the turmoil while avoiding direct confrontation with Iran.
In response to a drone strike that killed three U.S. soldiers in Jordan, the U.S. conducted numerous strikes on Iran-affiliated targets in Iraq and Syria last week. Additionally, joint strikes with Britain targeted Yemeni rebels over the weekend. However, subsequent to these actions, American forces were once again targeted in Syria, while the rebels continued their assaults on merchant ships.
Jon Alterman, Director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, anticipates a persistent level of violence for the foreseeable future. He believes that while Iran and its proxies are unlikely to concede, the frequency and magnitude of attacks may diminish due to the impact of U.S. strikes and the desire to minimize losses.
In response to inquiries about the Pentagon’s strategy, spokesman Major General Pat Ryder stated that there are no plans for a protracted campaign in Iraq and Syria. He affirmed that necessary actions would be taken to safeguard U.S. forces, indicating a commitment to continued defensive measures.
Michelle Grise, a senior policy researcher at RAND, suggests that proxy attacks may continue throughout the duration of the Gaza conflict. However, she notes that a prolonged ceasefire could lead to a temporary cessation of hostilities.
Tensions over Israel’s Gaza offensive have fueled violence involving Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. American military personnel in the region have been targeted over 165 times in the past four months, primarily in Iraq and Syria. One notable attack occurred in Jordan, resulting in the deaths of three soldiers.
Despite retaliatory airstrikes, subsequent attacks on U.S. forces persisted, underscoring the ongoing threat. In Yemen, Houthi rebels have targeted Red Sea shipping since November, purportedly in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Joint U.S.-British strikes against the Houthis have been conducted, but retaliatory actions from the rebels continue.
The U.S. accuses Tehran of providing support to the groups responsible for the attacks but has refrained from direct military action against Iran. Analysts warn against a full-scale conflict, emphasizing the risks of regional escalation and the absence of clear objectives.
