‘An absolute tragedy’

Three U.S. servicemembers were killed — and at least 30 wounded — in an aerial drone attack Sunday night in northeast Jordan near the Syria border. This marks the first time U.S. troops were killed by enemy fire in the Mideast since the start of the Gaza War.

American Legion National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer condemned the attack, which is believed to have been carried out by Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.

“We are in mourning for these American heroes, three servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” Seehafer said. “It is an absolute tragedy and we grieve with their families. We call upon Congress and the Department of Defense to do more to ensure that our deployed troops are equipped appropriately to protect them from future attacks.”

Jordan is a key ally of the United States and has played a vital role in cooperating with the U.S. military. For example, American troops have trained Jordanian soldiers and partnered with them on various exercises and operations.

“This act of aggression should not deter our resolve to protect U.S. interests at home and abroad,” Seehafer said. “In fact, it should embolden us to honor the memories of the servicemembers we lost. We must remain steadfast to bring about peace in the Mideast through any means necessary.”