The US has launched airstrikes on eastern Syria – the first military action undertaken since Joe Biden became president.
The Thursday evening strikes were in retaliation for a rocket attack in Iraq on 15 February that killed a civilian contractor and wounded coalition troops, including Americans.
The targets were at a control point on the border with Iraq, and the Pentagon said “multiple facilities” used by Iranian-backed militant groups were “destroyed”.
The Pentagon’s chief spokesperson John Kirby said: “This proportionate military response was conducted together with diplomatic measures, including consultation with coalition partners.
“The operation sends an unambiguous message: President Biden will act to protect American and coalition personnel.
“At the same time, we have acted in a deliberate manner that aims to deescalate the overall situation in eastern Syria and Iraq.”
