U.S. starts airstrikes against ISIS

WASHINGTON (AP) – The United States and partner nations began launching airstrikes against Islamic State group targets in Syria for the first time tonight, expanding a military campaign against the militants with a mix of fighter jets, bombers and Tomahawk cruise missiles fired from ships in the region.

The strikes were part of the expanded military campaign that President Barack Obama authorised nearly two weeks ago in order to disrupt and destroy the Islamic State militants, who have slaughtered thousands of people, beheaded Westerners – including two American journalists – and captured a large swath of territory stretching from within Syria to land across northern and western Iraq.

Because the military operation was ongoing, no details could be provided yet, said Rear Admiral John Kirby, the Pentagon’s press secretary. He said the decision to strike was made earlier today by the military.

He did not name the partner nations participating in the operation; however U.S. officials have said the U.S. would not launch this mission alone and some Arab nations had been expected to participate.

Some of the airstrikes were against Islamic State group targets in Raqqa. Military officials have said the U.S. would target militants’ command and control centres, re-supply facilities, training camps and other key logistical sites.