Iraq: Rockets, Drones Target Bases Housing US Forces

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Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons

The Facts

  • Two military bases hosting US troops in western Iraq were reportedly attacked with drones and missiles Thursday, days after Iraqi militias allegedly warned Washington against intervening in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

  • Several blasts were allegedly heard at Ain Al-Asad air base, though it's unclear whether the attack caused casualties or damage. The Iraqi military said it had blocked off the area around the base and launched an investigation.

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The Spin

Establishment-critical narrative

Despite the tragic casualties on both sides of the conflict, the US — looking to shore up its political standing with Tel Aviv — has unequivocally supported Israel while largely ignoring the horrors experienced by the Palestinians. This is a dangerous maneuver that has abandoned Washington's national interests in the rest of the region, leaving room for other actors to intervene.

Arab Center Washington DC

Pro-establishment narrative

While there's no clear evidence that Tehran was involved in Hamas' savage assault on Israel, recent attacks by Iranian-backed militias on US bases show that the Iranian regime is playing with fire. Meanwhile, other Iranian proxies like Hezbollah threaten to open a second front against Israel. Israel has no choice but to defend itself, and Washington is right to have its back.

Firstpost

Metaculus Prediction

Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

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