After a drone attack killed three U.S. soldiers in Jordan last week, the United States struck more than 85 targets in Iraq and Syria on Friday. The U.S. response is the latest escalation in a widening conflict in the Middle East. 

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Several Iran-allied groups aligned with Hamas have mobilized since the militant organization’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel prompted an ongoing Israeli military offensive. According to Pentagon data, Iranian-backed militias have launched at least 165 attacks on U.S. forces since October – including a drone attack that killed three U.S. service members.

Intelligence and national security correspondent Shane Harris explains what led to the U.S. airstrikes on Friday and what the consequences could be.

Today’s show was produced by Ariel Plotnick. It was mixed by Sean Carter. It was edited by Lucy Perkins. Thanks also to Bishop Sand and Maggie Penman.