US launches strikes in Iraq in response to series of attacks against personnel
US military forces have conducted "necessary and proportionate" strikes on three facilities used by Iranian-backed militant groups in Iraq.
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin said: "These precision strikes are a response to a series of attacks against US personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-sponsored militias, including an attack by Iran-affiliated Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups on Erbil Air Base earlier today."
Mr Austin said the American strikes were intended to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of the Iranian-aligned militia groups.
The US defence chief added: "Today's attack led to three injuries to US personnel, leaving one service member in critical condition. My prayers are with the brave Americans who were injured today.
"And 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."
Erbil airbase has previously been hit by rocket attacks carried out by Iranian-linked militia.
Kataib Hezbollah, which is financed and armed by Iran, has been a prominent group involved in attacks on US targets in Iraq.
It forms part of the Hashd al Shaabi a popular mobilisation which has been integrated into the Iraqi armed forces.
In recent years, the US has frequently targeted sites linked to militant groups in Iraq and Syria.
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