US Enhances Military Presence Amid Rise in Attacks on Troops in Middle East; 45 Injured Since October

Increasing Iranian-Backed Attacks Coincide with Rising U.S.-Israel Relations; Special Forces, Navy Carrier Groups, and Fighter Jets Deployed in Response

U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria were targeted in seven more attacks over the weekend, bringing the total to 38 since October 17, coinciding with the Israel-Hamas conflict and the ramping up of U.S.-Israel relations.
An additional five Americans were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries at Al-Tanf military base in Syria, with 10 more personnel facing other injuries, thereby increasing the total number of forces hurt in the region to 45 since the first assault.
Iranian-backed groups have increased their attacks on U.S. and coalition forces, seeking to capitalize on the backlash to U.S. support for Israel, with attacks largely focusing on Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq, and al-Tanf Garrison, Syria.
In response to the attacks, the U.S. has deployed significant forces to the Middle East, including two Navy carrier strike groups, various aircraft, and around 1,200 U.S. troops equipped with Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) batteries.
US Central Command made a rare announcement that a U.S. guided-missile submarine had arrived in the Middle East, indicating the seriousness of the situation and the commitment of the U.S. to ensure the protection of its forces.