Biden Says U.S. Response to Deadly Drone Strike in Jordan Has Been Decided
New York TimesJan 31
Syria: Drone Attack Kills Six US-Backed Kurdish Fighters
The Facts
Six US-backed Kurdish fighters were killed in a drone attack on a US base in eastern Syria on Sunday.
The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces reported that the attack, which struck a training ground at al-Omar base in the eastern Syrian region of Deir el-Zour, also wounded 18.
The Spin
Democratic narrative
Pres. Biden is taking a calculated and patient approach to retaliating against Iran's regional aggression in order to contain Iran's belligerent behavior and avoid serious escalation. Aside from a direct attack on Iran, there are plenty of options on the table. Rest assured, Biden will send a message to deter threats against US interests.
Republican narrative
The Biden administration has done nothing to deter Iran's aggressions since he took office, so there's no reason to believe he will do anything that will make a difference in Iran's behavior. As Iranian attacks against US forces escalate, all the administration has done is issue strongly worded statements. Donald Trump showed the type of strength it takes to put Iran in its place, but unfortunately, Biden won't show such leadership.
Pro-Iran narrative
US foreign policy is the primary driver of violence and instability in the Middle East, as the US continues to occupy countries in the region — including Iraq and Syria — and ruthlessly supports Israel's brutal campaign against Palestinians in Gaza. If the US wants a secure and stable Middle East, it should withdraw its forces from the region and cease its support for Gaza's destruction.
Nerd narrative
There is a 1% chance that there will be a non-test nuclear detonation in Iran before 2025, according to Metaculus community prediction.