Purple Hearts Awarded to Airmen in 2024 Tower 22 Attack

It’s not that the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel caused all of the disruption American troops face in the Middle East. However, it clearly ramped things up again. The first major attack involving the deaths of U.S. military service members was the Tower 22 attack. This took place on January 28, 2024. Ever since the Jordan drone strike, investigations have worked to make sense as to how it happened, who was responsible, and which awards should be awarded. Now, more of the puzzle is coming together. Those who served through this attack are rightfully receiving recognition for their duties.

2024 Tower 22 Attack Perpetrators Identified

Although many groups have been connected to the Tower 22 attack, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) was ultimately held responsible. Even within the IRI, there are several different factions. However, the group is a Shia militia that receives support from Iran. They are heavily influenced by the ongoing war between Israel and other terrorist groups. Furthermore, because of their involvement in the Tower 22 drone attack, Ansar Allah al-Awfiya (19th PMF Brigade) was assigned the status of a terrorist organization by the U.S. Department of State months after the event.

A Drone Strike in Jordan

A drone attack on Tower 22 killed three National Guardsmen while wounding many other service members in January 2024. Those stationed at Tower 22 were helping to maintain stability in a volatile region only made worse by the ongoing attacks between Israel and various terrorist groups backed by Iran. Due to ISIS operating in the area, both Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield continue to keep thousands of troops in the Middle East. This number continues to grow, in an effort to boost regional security. Service members stationed throughout the region are growing increasingly vulnerable to being targeted by militant groups looking to respond to Israeli and American-backed attacks in Gaza, Yemen, and now, Lebanon.

Purple Heart Awards and Air Force Promotions Post-Tower 22