Locals in Kuwait attacked an American soldier after he parachuted down. A viral video on social media shows a US soldier pleading with local residents who appear aggressive.
While one of them is filming the incident, another is seen recording the American soldier on his mobile camera. Meanwhile, one person is holding a stick and appears to attack the soldier.
When the soldier asks them to ‘stand back’, he kneels before them. However, when he says he is American, the locals seem to lose interest and move away. It is believed that local people mistook him for an Iranian soldier and became aggressive.
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“A video is emerging of the Kuwaitis aggressively approaching one of our downed fighter pilots, only to retreat once the pilot tells them he is an AMERICAN,” wrote the American journalist who shared the video.
“It seems the Kuwaitis thought an IRANIAN plane had just been shot down and were going to take care of business,” the journalist added.
The journalist later reported that the soldier was safe. “All six of our pilots are safe and sound,” he added.
“Being an American brings huge respect in the oil-rich Persian Gulf. The US protects these nations. Any other pilot (Iranian, etc.) would be in deep trouble. That sentence ‘I’m an American’ was a literal get-out-of-jail-free card,” the social media user commented.
“Aren’t these pilots armed? Shouldn’t they have a small handgun for situations like this?” another user asked.
Another user wrote: “The Kuwaiti border is ten miles from Iran. The Kuwaitis seem nervous about the downed pilot being Iranian. Once he says he’s American, everything is fine. Definitely a tense situation for the pilot and locals on the ground.”
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“I can’t blame the Kuwaitis for being cautious, but they know the US is their ally,” chimed in another.
This report is based on user generated content from social media. LiveMint has not independently verified and does not endorse these claims.
Why are US troops in Kuwait?
About 13,500 US troops are currently stationed in Kuwait. It is part of the long-term security partnership between the two countries.
Kuwait is a major logistics and support center for US military operations in the Middle East. Key bases such as Camp Arifjan and Ali Al-Salem Air Base are located here.
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Since February 28, US forces in Kuwait have been supporting a major military campaign against Iran called Operation Epic Fury. The conflict escalated following rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and domestic political issues.
Kuwaiti bases play a key role in moving weapons, equipment and supplies to active battlefields. A unit based in Kuwait is managing the logistics of the ongoing offensive.
As Kuwait hosts major US military assets, it has become a target for Iranian retaliation. Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones at US bases in Kuwait. At least six US service members have reportedly been killed so far.
