Pentagon: "At approximately 5:30 p.m. (EST) on January 7, Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq."
"It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil."
Pentagon statement says battle-damage assessments are underway and says the Defense Department took appropriate measures to safeguard U.S. troops.
These bases have been on high alert due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in the region," statement says.
"As we evaluate the situation and our response, we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend U.S. personnel, partners, and allies in the region," DOD adds. "Due to the dynamic nature of the situation, we will continue to provide updates as they become available."
Analysis: Iran, a frequent purveyor of proxy warfare, is now launching ballistic missiles from its own territory.
Pentagon statement landed in my inbox at 7:08 p.m., for anyone interested in the sequence of events.
The Iran Power Report released by the Defense Intelligence Agency says that ballistic missiles are one of Iran's three major capabilities. The other two are proxy forces and its navy.
It can reach well into Iraq with its accurate short-range missiles.
dia.mil/Portals/27/Doc…
It can reach well into Iraq with its accurate short-range missiles.
dia.mil/Portals/27/Doc…
