The United States Justice Department has announced charges against two men in connection with a deadly drone attack on U.S. soldiers in Syria. The attack, which took place on January 27, 2020, resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and the injury of two others.
The two men charged in connection with the attack are British nationals Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh, who are both believed to be members of the Islamic State group. The charges against them include conspiracy to murder American citizens, providing material support to terrorists, and using a weapon of mass destruction.
According to the Justice Department, Kotey and Elsheikh were part of a group of ISIS militants who planned and carried out the drone attack on the U.S. soldiers. The attack marked the first time that a drone was used to target American troops in combat.
The two men are currently in U.S. custody and are expected to be brought to trial in federal court. If convicted, they could face life in prison or even the death penalty.
In a statement, Attorney General Merrick Garland said, “These charges send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate acts of terrorism against our military personnel. We will do everything in our power to hold those responsible for such heinous acts accountable.”
The drone attack on U.S. soldiers in Syria serves as a chilling reminder of the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups like ISIS. It also highlights the increasing use of drones as a weapon of war in conflicts around the world.
The Justice Department’s swift action in charging Kotey and Elsheikh demonstrates the U.S. government’s commitment to seeking justice for those who have lost their lives in acts of terrorism. As the trial of the two men unfolds, the world will be watching closely to see how the U.S. justice system handles this high-profile case.