here you go. A lot of words but the summary is that he effectively did nothing. His actions resulted in no deterrence as Iran continued to attack the US and its interests. Think trump would have put up with 200 attacks?
President Biden's response to the numerous attacks on US interests, primarily in Iraq and Syria, attributed to Iran-backed militias, has involved a
two-pronged approach:
1. Retaliatory Strikes:
- Targeted Military Actions: The US military has conducted numerous airstrikes against targets linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and affiliated groups in Iraq and Syria. These strikes have targeted facilities like command and control centers, intelligence centers, weapons storage facilities, and logistics and munition supply chain facilities.
- Response to Attacks on Personnel: These retaliatory strikes have been directly linked to attacks on US personnel in the region, particularly following attacks that resulted in injuries or fatalities. For example, a major round of strikes in February 2024 was launched in retaliation for a drone attack in Jordan that killed three US service members and injured dozens.
- "Tiered Response": Biden indicated that the response would not be a single event, but a series of actions over time, carried out "at times and places of our choosing". This suggests a deliberate and strategic approach to deter further attacks.
2. Deterrence and Messaging:
- Public Statements: Biden has made clear that the US "shall respond" to attacks on its forces. He has emphasized that the US does not seek wider conflict but will take necessary actions to defend its interests.
- Diplomacy and De-escalation: Despite the strikes, the administration has also worked to de-escalate tensions in the region. There have been reports of efforts to negotiate ceasefires and address the root causes of instability.
- Emphasis on Self-Defense: The administration has framed its military actions as acts of self-defense, justified by the attacks on US and coalition forces.
However, it's important to note:
- Ongoing Attacks: Despite US retaliatory efforts, Iran-backed militias have continued to attack US forces in the region.
- Calls for Stronger Action: Some critics argue that the US should directly target Iranian interests to deter their proxies more effectively.
- Concerns about Escalation: There are ongoing concerns about the potential for wider conflict in the Middle East due to these repeated attacks and US responses.
