The US military has targeted Iran-backed militia in Iraq across three locations.
The Pentagon said the strikes were in response to increasing attacks on US bases in Iraq.
The strikes came hours after US and UK forces conducted air raids in Yemen.
The US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the strikes were necessary and proportionate.
Attacks on US Forces
US troops stationed in Iraq have come under attacks from Iranian-backed militias.
According to reports, US troops in Iraq and Syria have been attacked about 150 times since the 7 October terrorist attack.
In response, the US has targeted dozens of locations with bombing campaigns in Yemen included.
U.S. CENTCOM Destroys Two Houthi Terrorists' Anti-Ship Missiles
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) January 24, 2024
On Jan. 24 at approximately 2:30 a.m.(Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted strikes against two Houthi anti-ship missiles that were aimed into the Southern Red Sea and were prepared to launch. U.S.… pic.twitter.com/l3CMPrDx92
Tensions Raising
The tensions are high as the Middle East crisis continues to gain momentum with fears of escalation across the region. The US has warned of potential escalation and has been pressuring different countries to show restraint.