The world is closely watching the Middle East as world leaders try to prevent violence from turning into an all-out war. There are reports tonight of an attack on an air base in Iraq that has injured several US service members.
US officials say several Americans have been injured at Al-Assad Airbase in Iraq in a suspected rocket attack. It’s unclear if it’s connected to the ongoing fighting along the Israel-Lebanon border. Israel has been preparing for retaliation from Iran after a senior Hamas leader was killed inside Tehran and a Hezbollah leader was killed in a strike in Lebanon.
Top diplomats have been working around the clock trying to prevent escalation and salvage the fragile ceasefire deal. Both President Biden and Vice President Harris met with their national security team to be briefed on the situation. The White House says they discussed what they are doing to protect US forces along with Israel and how to respond to a potential attack. The US has moved more warships and fighter jets into the region.
“We have been sending consistent messages through our diplomatic engagement, encouraging people to communicate to the government of Iran that escalation is not in their interest and that we will defend Israel from attacks, Escalation does not serve Iran’s interest.” said an official.
Back in April, Iran launched more than 300 missiles and drones towards Israel. Most were intercepted. A number of major airlines have canceled flights to and from the region as several countries warned their citizens to leave.
