US Conducts Retaliatory Strikes on Kataib Hezbollah in Iraq
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced on Christmas night that the United States had conducted retaliatory strikes on the terrorist group Kataib Hezbollah in Iraq. The strikes were carried out in response to an attack on U.S. personnel by the Iranian-sponsored militia, which left three American military personnel injured, with one in critical condition.
In a statement released on Christmas night, Austin stated, “Today, at President Biden’s direction, U.S. military forces conducted necessary and proportionate strikes on three facilities used by Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups in Iraq. These precision strikes are a response to a series of attacks against U.S. 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, and intended to disrupt and degrade capabilities of the Iran-aligned militia groups directly responsible.”
The defense secretary made it clear that the U.S. government will not hesitate to take necessary action to defend the country, its troops, and its interests. “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,” he said.
CENTCOM General Michael Erik Kurilla also weighed in, stating that the airstrikes are intended to hold regional actors “accountable.”
The U.S. retaliatory strikes come as tensions continue to escalate between the U.S. and Iran-affiliated militias in the region. The injuries to American military personnel during the attack on Christmas Day highlight the ongoing threat posed by these groups.
The statement from Secretary of Defense Austin and the subsequent airstrikes are a clear message that the U.S. is willing to take decisive action to protect its personnel and interests in the region.
This is a developing story, and Fox News Digital’s Andrea Vacchiano contributed to this report.
Posted by Timothy H.J. Nerozzi