The US and its allies are stuck in a violent cycle with Iran-backed militias who want blood but don't want to 'poke the bear'

• US forces in the Middle East routinely trade fire with Iran-backed militias.
• It's part of a years-long cycle of violence involving multiple actors who all know the limits. 
• Experts told Insider that the risk of escalation is low, but miscalculations can happen and have.

Another round of violence in the Middle East recently bloodied US troops, killed an American, and left local militia fighters dead. This bloodshed is part of a years-long cycle of violence in the region that has killed scores of people and tends to keep everyone involved on edge.