Washington, January 21, 2024, The Europe Today: The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that Al-Asad Air Base in Iraq was subjected to a ballistic missile attack on Saturday by Iranian-backed militants associated with the “Islamic Resistance of Iraq.” The attack occurred at 6:30 p.m. local time, involving multiple ballistic missiles and rockets.
CENTCOM stated that the airbase’s defense systems intercepted most of the missiles, with some impacting the base. Damage assessments are ongoing, and a number of US personnel are undergoing evaluation for potential traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was reported wounded.
The attack signifies an escalation compared to recent incidents, as it involved ballistic missiles rather than just rockets. The militants claimed responsibility for the assault, citing it as a response to perceived US support for Israel against Hamas. The situation is being closely monitored as assessments continue.
