At approximately 0818 EST today, Iraqi pro-militia outlet Sabereen reported that U.S. coalition base al-Harir in Erbil, Iraq was struck by a drone attack. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for the attack by 0900 EST. By 1200 EST, Iraqi Armed Forces Chief of Staff Spokesperson Rasoul confirmed that there were casualties, but refrained from mentioning nationality or the extent of the injuries.
At approximately 1900 EST, a second drone attack occurred, this time at Erbil International Airport where two drones impacted. Coalition air defense did engage. However, it is not clear which attack the U.S. service members were injured in, most likely the attack earlier today which the Iraqis confirmed injuries in.
As this publication reported moments ago, U.S. Defense Secretary Austin announced retaliatory strikes in response to the attack, but just now confirmed U.S. casualties. His announcement reads below:
”Today, at President Biden’s direction, U.S. military forces conducted necessary and proportionate strikes on three facilities used by Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups in Iraq. These precision strikes are a response to a series of attacks against U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-sponsored militias, including an attack by Iran-affiliated Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups on Erbil Air Base earlier today, and intended to disrupt and degrade capabilities of the Iran-aligned militia groups directly responsible.
Today’s attack led to three injuries to U.S. personnel, leaving one service member in critical condition. My prayers are with the brave Americans who were injured today.”
