WASHINGTON — The U.S. military struck dozens of targets belonging to Iran's Islamic new Guard Corps inside Syria and Iraq, hitting facilities used by the IRGC's Quds Force and affiliated militia groups responsible for recent attacks on American personnel.
The overnight strikes came in response to a drone attack last week that killed three U.S. service members at a base in Jordan. Targets included command and control centers, intelligence hubs, munitions storage facilities and logistics sites across seven locations. The Pentagon said the strikes aimed to degrade the IRGC's ability to project power and deter future attacks on U.S. forces and allies.
President Trump authorized the strikes after consulting with his national security team and congressional leaders from both parties. The administration cited its right to self-defense and its commitment to protecting U.S. personnel deployed abroad. Defense industry lobbying groups are expected to intensify pressure on Capitol Hill as the prospect of sustained military engagement shapes budget talks.
Global financial markets moved quickly on the news. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.2 percent, reflecting investor concern over instability in a critical energy region. The S&P 500 fell 1.5 percent, with energy stocks volatile and safe-haven assets gaining. Defense contractors including Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies drew renewed investor interest as military spending discussions intensified in Washington.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to brief the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Friday on the strategic implications of the strikes and the path forward. The United Nations Security Council may convene an emergency session to address the escalating situation. The Pentagon said further military action remains an explicit option if attacks on American forces and interests continue.
