UNITED STATES−At 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, Iran launched 16 ballistic missiles targeted at U.S. Troops stationed at military bases in Iraq.

The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, Jonathan Hoffman issued the following statement:

“At least two military bases housing U.S. military and coalition personnel AL-Asaad and Erbil.”

The Military Times reported that 10 of the 15 missiles launched hit Al-asad Airbase, while one hit Erbil International Airport in the North. The four remaining missiles are believed to have failed in flight.

Preliminary reports indicated that there were no U.S. casualties from the attacks. As the sun rises in Iraq, a true picture of the damage, or lack thereof from missiles fired from Tehran.

It is not clear if Iranian missile launchers intentionally left no casualties in Tuesday’s attacks. Within hours of the launched missiles, a plane went down killing everyone on board.  Initial news reports indicated, no foul play, however the crash is now being investigated.  News reports stated the possibility that the airplane  was intercepted by a missile.

President Trump announced, “all is well” once he was informed that there were no known casualties.  President Trump waited until learning there were no casualties before issuing a statement to the public.

“No American or Iraqi lives were lost because of the precautions taken, the dispersal of forces, and an early warning system that worked very well.  I salute the incredible skill and courage of America’s men and women in uniform,” said President Trump in a statement at the start of the year commending the U.S. military for a job well done.

He also addressed the death of General Soleimani, the blood he had on his hands, and further restrictions being placed on Iran.

“Soleimani’s hands were drenched in both American and Iranian blood,” said President Trump. “Should have been terminated long ago.  By removing Soleimani, we have sent a powerful message to terrorists:  If you value your own life, you will not threaten the lives of our people.”

He added:

“As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression, the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime.  These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior.”