'Most incompetent': WH Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre ripped for saying US troops died in Jordan fighting for 'administration’

WASHINGTON, DC: White House Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has stirred controversy by suggesting that the three American soldiers killed in a suicide drone strike on a US base in Jordan died "fighting on behalf of the [Biden] administration."

The victims have been identified as Specialist Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, Specialist Breonna Moffett, 23, and Sgt. William Rivers, 46.

The drone attack occurred late Saturday, January 27, at Tower 22 near the Syria border, impacting a base in the northeast part of Jordan. The strike resulted in the tragic deaths of the three soldiers and left at least 34 others injured.

Controversial statements spark backlash

Speaking to MSNBC on Monday, January 29, Jean-Pierre's comments added fuel to the fire.

"Our deepest, obviously our deepest condolences go out, and our heartfelt condolences go out to the families who lost, uh, three, three brave, uh, three brave, uh, three brave, three folks who are military folks, who are brave, who are always fighting, who are fighting on behalf of, uh, this administration, of the American people, obviously more so, more importantly," she said, prompting swift backlash.

Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, condemning Jean-Pierre's remarks, posted on X, "No, Karine Jean-Pierre. Our military doesn't fight for the Biden administration. Our military fights for the American people and to protect our freedoms."

Congressman Pat Fallon of Texas echoed the sentiment, writing, "Our service members swear an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States. They are not fighting 'on behalf of' the Biden team. This is incredibly disrespectful."

Commentator Joe Concha criticized Jean-Pierre's performance, stating, "It truly is amazing to see that after almost two years on the job how it's possible that Karine Jean-Pierre is only getting worse at her job."

Jeremy Redfern, press secretary for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, called Jean-Pierre's comment "disgusting," adding, “Say what you will about this word salad, but the idea that anyone in the military is fighting on behalf of any administration is precisely what is wrong with the DC ruling class.”

Former GOP Congressman Doug Collins stressed, "These are not ‘folks.’ They are service members who gave their lives NOT for this administration, but for the Country they serve! They are our best and deserve better than this."

Foreign policy analyst Nile Gardiner did not mince words, calling the Biden Administration "amateurish, disorganized, disrespectful and an embarrassment to the United States."

"I can't believe Karine Jean-Pierre is still WH Spox," added John Cardillo. "Most incompetent in history."

Pentagon's confirmation and condolences

The Pentagon confirmed Monday, January 29, that the victims were likely in bed at the time of the attack. The three soldiers were assigned to the 718th Engineer Company, a US Army Reserve unit based out of Fort Moore, Georgia.

Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh highlighted the uniqueness of the attack, stating, "It did impact where the living quarters [were], and I believe it was pretty early morning so people were actually in their beds when the drone impacted."

Chief of Army Reserve, Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels, expressed condolences, saying, "The loss of Sergeant William J. Rivers, Specialist Breonna A. Moffett, and Specialist Kennedy L. Sanders has left an indelible mark on the United States Army Reserve. Their service and sacrifice will not be forgotten, and we are committed to supporting those left behind in the wake of this tragedy." 

The suicide drone reportedly originated from Iraq, launched by a militia backed by Tehran. President Biden vowed America “shall respond” to the attack, though US officials have not provided details on what that response might entail, the New York Post reported.