There’s no whataboutism at play here. You’re the one who drew this comparison; the poster you’re replying to is simply explaining why it’s an unintelligent comparison. That aside, what was it about a team of 0 Iraqis crashing a plane in New York that “forced” the US to “show some power”?
Yes, there is. Iraqi war and what China is going is totally different. Iraqi war is a consequence of 9/11. China's fight is against anyone that will not bend to their will.
That the US isn't afraid to retaliate, no more no less.