Purpose/Mission

Details: “to support operations by Iraqi forces to recapture the Mosul Dam”; “The failure of the Mosul Dam could threaten the lives of large numbers of civilians, endanger U.S. personnel and facilities, including the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, and prevent the Iraqi government from providing critical services to the Iraqi populace.”

Domestic Legal Authority

Details: “I have directed these actions, which are in the national security and foreign policy interests of the United States, pursuant to my constitutional authority to conduct U.S. foreign relations and as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive.”

Claimed International Legal Basis

Details: “These actions are being undertaken in coordination with the Iraqi government.”

Estimated Scope/Duration

Mission-bound but indeterminate

Details: “limited in their scope and duration as necessary to support the Iraqi forces in their efforts to retake and establish control of this critical infrastructure site, as part of their ongoing campaign against the terrorist group the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).”

Type of Enemy or Mission

Details: Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL)

Military Activity

Details: “targeted air strikes to support operations by Iraqi forces”

US Casualties Reported

Unknown

Non-US Casualties Reported

Unknown

Reporting as it Relates to Termination Clock

More than 60 days sustained activity