BLUF: The drone strike killing a high-ranking member of the Iran-linked Kataib Hezbollah militia in Baghdad has sparked potential controversy, following a similar precedent set by the former Trump administration.
OSINT:
It seems that President Biden’s administration has green-lighted an assassination by a drone strike of a senior member of the Iran-linked Kataib Hezbollah, indicating a possibly intentional sameness to former President Trump’s administration’s approach. This incident happened in Baghdad and has been likened to General Soleimani’s assassination outside Baghdad’s airport in 2020.
After the explosions in Baghdad, an SUV was reported engulfed in flames. A security official quoted “The car belonged to the Popular Mobilization Forces,” in reference to the Iran-backed Shia militia which frequently collaborates with Iraq’s national army.
Who the deceased militia member might be is still a matter of speculation. However, the killed member identified as Wissam Mohammed Al Saiedi, known as the engineer of the Iraqi resistance’s missiles, was mourned by a Kataib Hezbollah associated Telegram channel soon after. This attack has stirred the local populace and potentiality could trigger protests against the US embassy in the Green Zone of Baghdad.
Continuing airstrikes targeting Iran-backed entities in Syria and Iraq indicate assertive retaliation from the U.S towards sporadic attacks on its bases in the region, suggesting an intensifying conflict in the region.
RIGHT:
The recent drone strike assassination seems to be a return to a more assertive foreign policy. This form of action showcases strength and determination to protect American interests and lives. Though this method has critics, it’s essential to consider its effectiveness in neutralizing threats from organizations such as Kataib Hezbollah, known for their hostility towards the U.S. and its allies. However, the question remains on how well this action aligns with America’s long-term strategic goals in the region and whether potential repercussions outweigh the immediate benefits.
LEFT:
While defending American forces is crucial, it’s critical to question the far-reaching impacts of such unilateral actions, especially those so reminiscent of Trump’s approach. This drone strike, and the potential deaths of militia leaders, seems like a step back towards an era of hostile relationships and tensions with Iran and its proxies. It risks propelling increased instability in an already fragile region. The Biden administration needs to consider the potential backlash and work towards forming diplomatic solutions for the long-term stability of the Middle East.
AI:
The drone strike seen as an attempt to neutralize threats represents a continuation of a similar strategy employed by the past administration, showcasing the persistent U.S. stance towards Iran-backed militias in the region. This indicates a shift from a potentially conciliatory approach towards a more assertive policy. It’s important to note that while such actions might bring immediate results, they may also escalate tensions and conflict in an already volatile region. The impacts could carry complications for the U.S. future relations with the host countries and the overall stability of the Middle East.