US Launches Airstrikes in Iraq in Response to Drone Attack, Prompting Condemnation

The United States military launched airstrikes on Iraqi territory, targeting sites used by pro-Iran forces blamed for a drone attack on US forces. The Iraqi government condemned these strikes as “hostile acts,” describing them as an “unacceptable attack on Iraqi sovereignty” that would harm bilateral relations. The US strikes, launched in response to a Kataib Hezbollah attack on Erbil airbase, resulted in one Iraqi security force member killed and 18 others, including civilians, wounded.

The US National Security Council spokesperson, Adrienne Watson, stated that the airstrikes aimed at three sites used by Kataib Hezbollah and its affiliates were a proportionate response to the previous attack on US service members. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin labeled the strikes as “necessary and proportionate,” intending to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of Iran-aligned groups responsible for attacks against US personnel.

Highlighting the commitment to protecting American interests, Austin emphasized the willingness to take further necessary measures, though the goal is not to escalate the conflict. The US Central Command reported that the early assessments indicated the destruction of targeted facilities and likely casualties among Kataib Hezbollah fighters without harming civilians.

The broader context of these strikes reflects the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, influenced by events such as the Israel-Gaza conflict. The article notes that there have been over 100 reported attacks against US troops in Iraq and Syria since mid-October, and the US has signaled its readiness to respond to continued threats. While Iran has not commented on the latest strikes, it has previously denied directing proxy groups to attack US forces in the region.

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