Why the US Holds its Fire: Understanding the Lack of Retaliation Despite Constant Attacks on American Forces in the Middle East

Iran-backed groups have launched numerous attacks on US forces in Iraq and Syria since October 17, resulting in injuries to American troops. Despite these attacks, the US has refrained from retaliating. Middle East security experts suggest that the US is treading carefully, balancing its strategic interests in the region with the desire to avoid further escalation. The attacks, carried out using drones and rockets, have been attributed to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella term for Iran-backed militias operating in Iraq and Syria. While attacks on US forces by Iran-backed groups are not new, they have increased in frequency in recent weeks. The Pentagon has confirmed only one incident of retaliation against Iran-backed militias, stating that self-defense strikes were conducted against facilities used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its affiliated groups. However, the attacks on American assets have continued. The US has chosen not to engage the militias fully, as escalation could lead to chaos in the region. There is a concern that the conflict between Israel and Hamas could expand into a broader regional conflict involving Iran or its proxies. The Biden administration has largely ignored the attacks, as the militias are not attempting to inflict significant casualties on US forces. The US is trying to balance defensive responses that demonstrate its capabilities while also pursuing its strategic goals, which include defeating ISIS and preventing the spread of the conflict in Gaza. US officials assert that deterrence is working, and while future retaliation is possible, it is not currently deemed necessary.