Pentagon Vows to Defend US Forces
Defense Secretary Austin Back in Office After Medical Absence
During a Pentagon meeting on Monday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed his outrage and sorrow over the deaths of three US troops in a drone attack in Jordan. He stated, “The president and I will not tolerate attacks on US forces. And we will take all necessary actions to defend the US and our troops.”
This marks Austin’s first day back in the office following a monthlong medical absence. After being hospitalized for nearly two weeks in January, he began working from home until now. Austin expressed his gratitude for the well wishes he has received and stated, “I feel good and I’m recovering well, but still recovering.”
Drone Attack Strikes US Outpost Near Syrian Border
The drone attack on US troops in Jordan resulted in the deaths of three service members and injured at least 34 others. The attack targeted a US outpost known as Tower 22, located near the Syrian border. This incident marks a significant escalation, as it is the first time US troops have been killed by enemy fire in the Middle East since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7.
Escalation in Attacks on US Troops
Since the start of Israel’s war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, US troops in Iraq and Syria have faced over 160 drone and missile attacks on their bases. However, Sunday’s attack in Jordan is the first to have resulted in US fatalities. President Biden was briefed on the attack by Austin, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, and Principal Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer on Sunday morning.
Fox News’ Danielle Wallace contributed to this report.
