(WTXL) — Iran fired more than a dozen ballistic missiles at two Iraq airbases that house U.S. military troops, the Pentagon confirmed Tuesday.
Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said the attack targeted the Al-Asad Airbase and Erbil Airbase in Iraq where U.S. troops are stationed.
A defense official tells ABC News that Iran fired 15 total ballistic missiles. Ten hit Al Asad in western Iraq), one hit Erbil in northern Iraq and four more "failed in flight." These numbers are based on initial reports, the official said.
Right now, no information is available on possible casualties while officials work on damage assessments.
Iranian leaders previously vowed a military response after the U.S. launched an attack that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani last week.
Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman released the following statement to ABC News about the missiles:
At approximately 5:30 p.m. (EST) on January 7, Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq. It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil.
We are working on initial battle damage assessments.
In recent days and in response to Iranian threats and actions, the Department of Defense has taken all appropriate measures to safeguard our personnel and partners. These bases have been on high alert due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in the region.
As we evaluate the situation and our response, we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend U.S. personnel, partners, and allies in the region.
Due to the dynamic nature of the situation, we will continue to provide updates as they become available.
White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham released the following statement to ABC News:
We are aware of the reports of attacks on US facilities in Iraq. The President has been briefed and is monitoring the situation closely and consulting with his national security team.
