The U.S. Military conducted airstrikes against Kataib Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed terrorist group, in response to a drone strike that injured multiple U.S. service members in Iraq.
The strikes aimed to hold accountable those responsible for attacks on coalition forces and degrade their ability to continue attacks.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized the commitment to defending U.S. interests and readiness to take further necessary measures to protect personnel and facilities in the region. (Trending: Trump Releases Must-See Christmas Message)
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) wrote, “Early assessments indicate that these U.S. airstrikes destroyed the targeted facilities and likely killed a number of Kataib Hezbollah militants,” in a statement.
“There are no indications that any civilian lives were affected. The U.S. military will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of these strikes,” continued the press release.
CENTCOM Commander General Michael Erik Kurilla said the operations were “intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks.”
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said, “Let me be clear – the President and I will not hesitate to take necessary action to defend the United States, our troops, and our interests.”
“There is no higher priority. While we do not seek to escalate conflict in the region, we are committed and fully prepared to take further necessary measures to protect our people and our facilities,” explained Austin.
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