Reaction to Drone Strike on US Troops in Jordan: Reuters Report

Drone Attack in Jordan Claims Lives of U.S. Service Members

Three U.S. service members were killed and up to 34 others injured following a drone strike in Jordan, which U.S. officials attributed to Iranian-backed militants. This incident marks a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, which have surged since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, prompting retaliatory strikes in Gaza.

Key reactions from U.S. policymakers and international leaders are as follows:

President Joe Biden (Democrat)
"The three American service members we lost were true patriots whose sacrifice will never be forgotten. We will uphold their commitment to fight terrorism, and there will be accountability for all responsible at a time and manner of our choosing."

Donald Trump (Republican and former President)
"This drone attack on a U.S. military installation in Jordan, resulting in the deaths of three Americans and many injuries, is a terrible day for our country. This audacious assault is a tragic consequence of the current administration’s weakness."

Nikki Haley (Republican presidential candidate)
"Our response should target the production of missiles and training sites, and we must go after the decision-makers rather than Iran as a whole. The Biden administration has not adequately increased sanctions on Iran, and we can take steps that do not lead to war but prevent it through strength."

Lloyd Austin, U.S. Defense Secretary
"Iran-backed militias are behind these ongoing attacks on U.S. forces, and we will respond at a time and place that we choose."

Ben Cardin (Democratic Senator and Foreign Relations Chair)
"This attack on U.S. and coalition forces in Jordan is a serious escalation and requires a response. I support a measured approach from President Biden."

Michael McCaul (Republican Congressman and Foreign Affairs Panel Chair)
"A significant reassessment of our Middle East policy is necessary to safeguard our national security and restore deterrence."

Chuck Schumer (Democratic Senate Leader)
"We mourn the loss of the service members killed in this drone attack and pray for the recovery of those injured. We must ensure those accountable are held to account."

Mitch McConnell (Republican Senate Leader)
"Our failure to deter adversaries has again resulted in American lives lost. We must not respond to aggression with indecision. The world is watching to see if the administration is prepared to assert American strength against Iran."

Mike Johnson (House Speaker)
"It’s imperative that we send a clear message that attacks on our personnel will not be tolerated."

Hakeem Jeffries (Democratic House Minority Leader)
"Every responsible party must be held accountable for this attack."

Egyptian Foreign Ministry
"Egypt condemns all terrorist acts that threaten the stability of Jordan and expresses full solidarity with the country. It’s essential to confront all forms of terrorism to ensure regional stability."

Iraqi Government Spokesperson Basim Alawadi
"The Iraqi government condemns the escalation, particularly the recent attacks near the Syrian-Jordanian border, and is closely monitoring developments in the region."

Israeli Foreign Affairs Minister Israel Katz
"We stand united in our fight against a common enemy. We honor the sacrifices made and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured."

Jack Reed (Democratic Senate Armed Services Committee Chair)
"The Pentagon is still gathering information on this attack. I trust the Biden administration will respond appropriately."

Roger Wicker (Republican Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member)
"We must respond to these Iranian provocations by targeting their leadership directly. The current administration’s responses have only encouraged further aggression."