Purpose/Mission

Details: "The strikes were taken to degrade militias’ capabilities and deter future attacks and were conducted in a manner designed to limit the risk of escalation and avoid civilian casualties. I directed the strikes in order to protect and defend our personnel and assets who are in Iraq conducting military operations pursuant to the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (Public Law 107-40). The strikes were intended to degrade and disrupt Iran and Iran‑affiliated militia groups from conducting or supporting further attacks on United States personnel and facilities."

Domestic Legal Authority

Details: "I directed this military action consistent with my responsibility to protect United States citizens both at home and abroad and in furtherance of United States national security and foreign policy interests, pursuant to my constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive and to conduct United States foreign relations and in accordance with the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (Public Law 107-40) and the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq (Public Law 107-243)."

Claimed International Legal Basis

Details: "The United States took this necessary and proportionate action consistent with international law, and in the exercise of the United States’ inherent right of self-defense as reflected in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter."

Estimated Scope/Duration

Scope/duration specified

Details: "On the night of January 23, 2024, at my direction, United States forces conducted discrete strikes"

Type of Enemy or Mission

Details: "Iran and Iran‑affiliated militia groups"

Military Activity

Details: "discrete strikes against facilities in Iraq used by IRGC-affiliated militia groups for training, logistics support, and other purposes. "

US Casualties Reported

Yes

Details: "These attacks, including the recent attack on Al-Asad Air Base by Iran-affiliated militia groups, have caused injuries to United States personnel and Coalition forces operating alongside United States forces and have placed their lives under grave threat."

Non-US Casualties Reported

Yes

Details: "These attacks, including the recent attack on Al-Asad Air Base by Iran-affiliated militia groups, have caused injuries to United States personnel and Coalition forces operating alongside United States forces and have placed their lives under grave threat."