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US Launches Airstrikes against ISIS in Tikrit

CBN

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At the request of Iraqi leaders, the U.S. began airstrikes in Tikrit Wednesday against the Islamic State.

A video released by the U.S. Department of Defense shows explosions on a bridge said to be controlled by ISIS.

The bombings mark a significant expansion of the U.S. military role in Iraq.

Lt. Gen. James L. Terry, commander of U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State, issued a statement saying the pinpoint airstrikes were "intended to destroy ISIL strongholds," while minimizing collateral damage.

"This will further enable Iraqi forces under Iraqi command to maneuver and defeat ISIL in the vicinity of Tikrit," his statement read.

The United States did not initially provide air support in Tikrit because Baghdad chose to partner with Iran instead in a battle it predicted would yield a quick victory.

A U.S. official said Wednesday's airstrikes would be followed by other strikes coordinated with Iraqi troops that have encircled the city but have yet to enter it.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi did not confirm that the U.S.-led coalition is providing the airstrikes, thereby playing a role in retaking Tikrit.

If Iraq can defeat Islamic State fighters in Tikrit, it will likely look next to retake the larger city of Mosul.

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