US service members injured in attack on Iraq base

A suspected rocket attack injured five U.S service members and two contractors at an air base in Iraq.

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) -- A suspected rocket attack injured five U.S. service members and two contractors at an air base in Iraq. A defense official says two had to be evacuated for care. All seven are stable.

"Our hearts go out to the service members who were injured, and we are hoping for a speedy recovery," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.

The White House says it remains focused on easing tensions in the Middle East.

"We do not want this conflict to escalate or spread," Jean-Pierre said.

This is the latest in a recent uptick of attacks on American forces by Iranian-backed militants. It comes after Israel says it killed senior Hezbollah and Hamas officials.

"These de-escalation conversations are going to continue. That's what we want to see," Jean-Pierre said.

House Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) said we are on the "brink of disaster" and called on President Biden to take a more active role to defend service members in the region and Israel.

In a statement, Johnson said "America and our allies and partners in the region should work together to strongly counter Iran and its terror proxies to send a clear message against these malign activities."

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) said "America needs a Commander-in-Chief who will protect our service members, demand peace through strength, apply maximum pressure, and put an end to Iran's aggression."

The White House says this is a priority for the president.

"To make sure that we do everything that we can, to protect our national security, right? To make sure that we have to do everything that we can, to work with our partners," Jean-Pierre said.

Defense officials say they are still assessing the situation after the strike.