Iran-backed militias to strike back at US bases in Iraq and Syria: Report

Iran is reportedly planning to strike back the United States after recent military tensions, according to a report by The New York Times. According to the report, American military and intelligence officials have noticed signs that Iran-backed militias are preparing to attack US bases in Iraq and possibly in Syria. This comes as potential retaliation after the US bombards on Iranian nuclear sites.

However, there has been no official confirmation yet from either the White House or Iranian authorities. "So far the groups have held off, and Iraqi officials are working hard to dissuade militia action," a US official said as quoted by The New York Times.

The report did not specify which Iran-backed groups might be involved, but militias have previously targeted US forces in Iraq using rockets and drones. Tensions between the US and Iran have remained high for years, particularly after the US killed Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020.

US BASES IN IRAQ COULD BE THE TARGET

If the conflict intensifies, the US military's strategic bases in Iraq might become targets. One of the largest is the Ain Al Asad Air Base in western Iraq’s Anbar province. This base contributes significantly to NATO's ongoing missions while providing support to Iraqi forces. Prior to Soleimani's death, in January 2020, it was struck by Iranian missiles.

Another major facility is the Erbil Air Base, located in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region. It is as a key site for US and coalition forces to carry out training, intelligence work, and logistical support for missions in northern Iraq and beyond.

WORLD BRACES FOR IRAN's RETALIATION

The world is bracing for Iran's response after the United States' biggest military action against the Islamic Republic since its 1979 revolution.

Iran vowed to defend itself a day after the US dropped 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs onto the mountain above Iran's Fordow nuclear site while American leaders urged Tehran to stand down and pockets of anti-war protesters emerged in US cities.

Meanwhile, Iran and Israel continued to trade volleys of missile attacks. An Israeli military spokesperson said Israeli fighter jets had struck military targets in western Iran. Earlier, Iran fired missiles that wounded scores of people and flattened buildings in Tel Aviv.

Tehran has so far not followed through on its threats of retaliation against the United States -- either by targeting US bases or trying to choke off global oil supplies -- but that may not hold.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said that Iran is weighing all possible responses and will not return to diplomatic talks until it carries out its retaliation.

"The United States has shown a clear disregard for international law. They only respond to threats and power," Araqchi said.

With inputs from Reuters

Tune In