Reports from international observers or credible news agencies

U.S. A-10 Warthogs Inflict Heavy Casualties on Iraqi Shia Militia in Eastern Syria

Dec 3, 2024, 01:03 PM

The U.S. Air Force has intensified its operations in eastern Syria, deploying A-10C 'Warthog' attack aircraft to support the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in their ongoing offensive against the Assad regime and Iranian-backed forces. The A-10s have been observed conducting strafing runs near Deir ez-Zor and Al-Mayadin, targeting Iraqi Shia militia columns and other Iranian-aligned groups, with heavy casualties reported. The operations aim to prevent these forces from advancing towards Damascus and linking up with Assad's troops, as well as to protect U.S. troops and their SDF allies from potential threats by Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) and Al-Qaeda-affiliated groups supported by Turkey. The A-10s from the 23rd Fighter Wing are providing close air support along the Euphrates River.