Israel conducted a missile strike in Damascus, Syria, targeting senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard officials. This incident has garnered attention and has led to discussions about the role of the United States in responding to Iranian aggression and missile attacks. The National Council of Resistance of Iran, the largest Iranian opposition group, released a report highlighting the involvement of Iran's Revolutionary Guard and the supreme leader in orchestrating attacks through proxy groups like the Houthis.
Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence and co-chairman at the America First Policy Institute Center for American Security, shared his views on the situation. He emphasized that the ongoing conflicts between the US, Israel, and Iran should be considered a low-grade war, as numerous exchanges of fire have occurred. He underscored the need for a more robust response from the US, citing the increasing number of Iranian ballistic missiles that have targeted and injured American troops.
Kellogg expressed concerns about the effectiveness of US missile defense systems in countering Iranian attacks. He referred to the recent missile barrage on the Al-Asad base, where US forces were stationed. Kellogg argued that if the US employed Patriot missile systems, the ratio of one Patriot missile per incoming missile would make it difficult to intercept larger salvos. He urged a more proactive approach, raising the stakes and targeting not only proxy groups but also the Iranian leadership and their missile infrastructure.
Regarding the suggestion to pursue similar actions to Israel's targeted assassination of Iranian officials in Damascus, Kellogg shared a more aggressive stance. He supported going after the top Iranian leadership, including figures like Malik al-Houthi of the Houthis, and even suggested targeting Brigadier General Ghani, who leads the Quds Force. Kellogg contended that a strong message needed to be sent to Iran, demonstrating that there are consequences for their actions.
Kellogg also voiced concerns about the current administration's reluctance to take decisive action. He argued that a significant escalation is necessary to break the cycle of violence in the region. He highlighted the importance of diplomatic measures, which in this case would involve striking at the Iranian leadership. Despite the frustrations expressed by CENTCOM, Kellogg speculated that advisors like President Biden, Jake Sullivan, and Lloyd Austin might be hesitant to take such action.
In conclusion, the recent missile strike by Israel targeting Iranian Revolutionary Guard officials in Damascus has intensified discussions about the US response to Iranian aggression. Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg highlighted the need for a stronger stance and more decisive action, including targeting top Iranian leadership. He believes that only by demonstrating the consequences of their actions can the ongoing conflicts be resolved.
