Pentagon: We Have Conveyed Our Seriousness in Response to Iran Through Various Channels

The spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense said on Thursday, December 23, regarding rocket attacks on positions and bases of American forces in Iraq: We take these threats very seriously and have conveyed our seriousness to the Iranians through various channels.

John Kirby, referring to the launch of a rocket toward the Green Zone in Baghdad, said: “Reports indicate that another indirect fire incident has occurred, and this one was in the Green Zone. We believe a small number of rockets were fired. We are investigating the damages and also examining the security and safety of our personnel.”

In response to a question suggesting that previous deterrent strikes by U.S. forces appear to have had no effect, he said: “I have said this before—we will do whatever we must to protect our people. If we are to respond, it will be at a time and place of our choosing.”

The U.S. Defense Department spokesperson added: “We are aware that these attacks continue on an ongoing basis. These attacks are intended to cause harm and loss of life, and we take that very seriously. We have conveyed this message and told the Iranians how seriously we take this matter.”

When asked whether this message was conveyed indirectly or in what manner, John Kirby said: “I will just say that we have made clear how seriously we take this matter. I will not add anything beyond that.”

The Pentagon spokesperson, when asked about an animation published on the website of Iran’s Supreme Leader regarding a drone attack and the killing of Donald Trump, former U.S. president, said he has nothing to say on the matter, but noted that he has reviewed the question and will respond to it at another opportunity.

Source: Voice of America