The recent attack on a military base, resulting in the tragic loss of three American soldiers and numerous injuries, has sparked controversy over the base's precise location.
According to information from the Associated Press news agency, the assault, carried out by a drone on Saturday night, targeted a base in northeastern Jordan. President Joe Biden promptly attributed responsibility to Iranian-backed factions and pledged a robust response.
However, Jordan has officially stated that the attack occurred at the Al-Tanf base beyond its borders, situated in Syria along the borders with Jordan and Iraq. The ambiguity surrounding the location has raised questions about the accuracy of the initial reports.
The Associated Press cites an American official who mentioned a "large drone" as the source who revealed the purpose of the operation. According to further reports, the specified military installation was "Tower 22," situated in Jordan close to the Syrian border. American troops use this location to offer technical, aviation, logistical, and security-related advise and support to their Jordanian colleagues.
Despite the confusion, it is crucial to note that the Al-Tanf military base in Syria is only 20 kilometers north of the "Tower 22" base. "Tower 22" serves as a pivotal logistical center for American forces in Syria, including those stationed at the Al-Tanf base. Both locations play strategic roles near the intersection of borders between Iraq, Syria, and Jordan.
The Jordanian government spokesman, Muhannad Mubaidin, officially confirmed that the attack occurred outside the Kingdom's territory. Meanwhile, Pentagon figures indicate the presence of 2,900 American soldiers stationed in military bases within Jordan.
This incident adds to the series of attacks by Iranian-backed militias on U.S. military facilities in Iraq (over 60 times) and Syria (over 90 times) since the commencement of the conflict in Gaza in October. These assaults have involved various means, including drones, missiles, mortar shells, and ballistic missiles, posing a significant challenge to regional stability.
