Iranian Attacks Reportedly Hit More U.S. Bases Than Previously Disclosed
Iranian attacks against U.S. bases in the Middle East have caused more damaged than initially disclosed, according to a new report.
The Washington Post detailed that attacks have damaged or destroyed at least 228 structures or pieces of equipment, including hangars, barracks, fuel depots, and radars.
The U.S. military sustained damage to 15 military sites in Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Seven service members died and over 400 have been injured since the war began in February 28. 12 of them have been seriously wounded.
The outlet went on to say that getting satellite imagery from the region is difficult, especially considering that the U.S. government has asked the main providers to limit, delay or withhold the publication of images while the war is taking place.
Iranian outlets, however, have published satellite images showing what they claim to be damage to several U.S. facilities in the region.
Experts cited by the outlet said that the U.S. underestimated Iran’s targeting abilities and did not adapt enough to modern drone warfare.
Mark Cancian, a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a retired Marine Corps colonel, described the attacks as “precise,” noting that “there are no random craters indicating misses.”
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) disputed the characterization of base damage, saying such assessments can be misleading. A spokesperson went on to say that military leaders will provide context after the war ends.
Axios detailed on Wednesday that there seems to be progress in that area, as the U.S. and Iran are getting close to a one-page memorandum of understanding with 14 points to end the war and usher detailed nuclear negotiations.
Washington expects Tehran to response to key issues before the end of the week. Among them are a moratorium on nuclear enrichment and lifting the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S., in turn, would lift sanctions on the country and end its own restrictions in the key waterway.
If agreed, the document would declare an end to the war and begin a 30-day period in which the Strait of Hormuz would gradually reopen while discussions take place. Should they collapse, the U.S. would be able to resume its blockade and military actions.
Parties are currently negotiating a moratorium of at least 12 years, a middle ground between the U.S.’s proposal of 20 years and Tehran’s five. The U.S. also wants for any violation from Iran to extend the moratorium.
Iran, on its end, would commit to never seek a nuclear weapon or conduct any related activities, including operating underground facilities. The country would also allow enhanced inspections and agree to remove its highly enriched uranium from the country. Tehran said it is reviewing the proposal and will convey its response to Pakistani mediators.
